Abstract: In this work, a three-level Box-Behnken factorial design was employed to optimize the culture conditions for liquid-state fermentation of Pleurotus eryngii. By the combined use of one-factor-at-a-time method and response surface methodology, the effect of four different factors on dry mycelial biomass was determined to be in the order of rotation speed > initial pH > inoculum quantity > medium volume and their optimal levels were 147.00 r/min, 5.90, 9.50% and 95.00 mL/250 mL, respectively. Under these conditions, the dry mycelial biomass was 1.265 7 g/100 mL. In conclusion, this study will provide evidence for the cultivation and bioactive components analysis of P. eryngii.

Key words: Pleurotus eryngii, liquid starter culture, fermentation conditions, response surface methodology