Beneficial interactions between bacteria and edible mushrooms

Mushroom-forming fungi establish mutual beneficial interactions with plants and degrade organic waste. These fungi also play an important role in human societies to produce mycelium materials, as a source of medicinal compounds, and as food. Bacteria interact with mushroom-forming fungi not only as competitors for nutrients and as pathogens but also to establish beneficial interactions. This review discusses the positive interactions of bacteria during the different stages of the life cycle of the white button mushroom Agaricus bisporus and other highly consumed mushroom-forming fungi. Bacteria are key in forming a selective substrate, in providing nutrients, in stimulating growth and mushroom formation, and in protection against pathogens. Implications for the mushroom industry are being discussed.