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Developing tools and criteria for sustainable cultivation of an endogenous product – Terfezia species

Publication . Ferreira, Inês; Houghton, Cristina Maria Nobre Sobral de Vilhena da Cruz

Ectomycorrhizal fungi (ECMF) cultivation has a promising future in the Mediterranean region, offering economic, cultural, and environmental benefits. Recent biotechnological ad-vancements have enabled the development of sustainable cultivation methods and technologies, especially for high-value species like desert truffles. ECMF is increasingly relevant for rural communities as it opens new business opportunities. Furthermore, these wild fungi are a valu-able food resource and play a vital role in forest ecosystems. However, the diversity of fungal species, both ECMF and non-ECMF, in forests presents opportunities and challenges. Mush-room harvesting is a significant income source for rural communities. However, inexperienced enthusiasts often struggle with accurate species identification, which is crucial for sustainable management and cultivation. Efficient, cost-effective methods for distinguishing fungal spe-cies, including potentially harmful ones, are needed. This research proposes combining an electronic nose with discriminant analysis to dif-ferentiate wild fungal species and assess their edibility based on aromatic profiles. While further data expansion is necessary, initial results suggest this approach could match the accuracy of identifications performed by mycologists and molecular biology experts. Moreover, the elec-tronic nose has the benefit of requiring less technical training while offering a cheaper and faster analytical alternative. Initially, centralized usage in distribution centres, mycological associa-tions or official services is recommended, with the potential for broader accessibility in the future. In addition to wild fungi harvesting, ectomycorrhizal fungi cultivation is becoming increasingly relevant for rural communities. The cultivation of desert truffles, particularly Terfezia truffles, stands out as a successful example of ectomycorrhizal fungi cultivation. These truffles are highly valued traditional delicacies in the Mediterranean region and have numerous biotechnological applications. Terfezia species, like T. arenaria, offer balanced nutritional and chemical composition and a unique aroma dominated by C8 volatile organic compounds, such as 1-octen-3-ol. With a distinct aroma and nutritional composition similar to meat, this desert truffle is an excellent candidate for use in plant-based meat products. Due to their singular volatile profile, an electronic nose was used to identify T. arenaria; due to its unique aroma profile, it was possible to distinguish it from other edible fungi species. This tool can significantly contribute to the sustainable production and commercialization of T.arenaria by ensuring the authenticity and quality of these truffles in the food market. Beyond the food industry, e-nose technology can advance research on these truffles, including studying their ecological role, identifying new Terfezia species, and developing early field detection methods. The volatile organic compounds these fungi produce serve as communication tools among various species, including ectomycorrhizal fungi, microorganisms, animals, and even humans. One of the most abundant volatiles in fungi is, 1-octen-3-ol, is responsible for their recognizable "mushroom aroma." This volatile, found in high concentrations in the sporocarps of many fungi, plays a vital role in ECMF interactions, influencing underground and above-ground ecosystems. It may act as a key mediator in altering these communities. Additionally, it may serve as an indicator of fungal fructification. During sporocarp development, ECMF pro-duces 1-octen-3-ol, which could trigger the formation of "burnt areas". Plant germination is inhibited or delayed in these areas, allowing fungal mycelium to expand and create space for sporocarp growth. Furthermore, 1-octen-3-ol could be detected by technologies like the elec-tronic nose, aiding in the early detection of hypogeous fungi like T. arenaria. This early detec-tion can help monitor production and expedite harvesting, particularly Terfezia species and other hypogeous fungi. This research highlights the significance of new technologies, such as the electronic nose, as tools to create innovative and sustainable solutions for managing, cultivating, and identifying ECMF species. Also, by combining multidisciplinary approaches, this thesis explores and showcases an endogenous resource – T. arenaria - a highly nutritional quality product, a still underrated product with a high ecologic, economic, and social potential. By deepening our understanding of their ecology and physiology, we can develop sustainable practices that value these endogenous natural resources and empower rural communities.

2024-04-24Doctoral thesis

Open access