| Climate variability, including increasing temperature, irregular rainfall, changing humidity and extreme weather events, poses a significant challenge to sustainable agricultural production in Central India. Diversification of farming systems through climate-resilient enterprises can help reduce production risks and improve farm income. Oyster mushroom (Pleurotus spp.) cultivation is a promising technology because it requires limited land, can utilize locally available agricultural residues and can be undertaken under protected or semi-controlled conditions. The present paper evaluates the potential of climate-resilient oyster mushroom cultivation technology for Central India with emphasis on seasonal species selection, substrate utilization, microclimate management and low-cost production practices. Published results indicate that wheat straw and paddy straw are promising substrates for oyster mushroom cultivation. A study conducted at Jabalpur reported a fresh yield of 902.10 g per bag and biological efficiency of 90.21% with 100% wheat straw, while another Jabalpur study reported 997.28 g yield and 99.73% biological efficiency with wheat straw. Seasonal variation also strongly influenced production, with higher yield during cooler months than during extreme summer conditions. The integration of suitable Pleurotus strains, locally available residues, humidity and temperature management, efficient water use and recycling of spent mushroom substrate can provide a practical climate-resilient production system for small and marginal farmers in Central India.
Keywords: Climate resilience, oyster mushroom, Pleurotus, agricultural residues, wheat straw, paddy straw, Central India, biological efficiency, microclimate management.
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