2.3. Fermentation of biomass samples
Six samples of kenaf pith (100 g each) were prepared in autoclavable
spawn bags. Two bags of each of the six compositions
were prepared by adding differing amounts (A-0%, 1%; B-10%, 0%;
and C-10%, 1% each) of clear flour and calcium salt, respectively
(0% and 1%). These additives were used to supplement and encourage
growth, particularly in the early stage as the mycelia from the
inoculum begin to colonize surrounding kenaf particles. Next,
water (400 mL) was added to each bag and the bags were sterilized
for 60 min at 0.1 MPa pressure. Bags of substrate were inoculated
at a rate of 10% (w/w) and sealed. Inoculum consisted of yellow
millet pre-colonized with cells from the relevant species. Original
cultures used were acquired directly from the field in the northeast
region of the United States. Samples from sets A and B (both for G.
lucidum and the F. pinicola) were collected after 17 d of incubation
and samples from set C were harvested after 16 d of incubation at
21 C.