Yield models for ectomycorrhizal mushrooms in Pinus sylvestris forests with special focus on Boletus edulis and Lactarius group deliciosus

Mushrooms in general, and Boletus edulis and Lactarius deliciosus in particular, are important non-wood forest products worldwide. Despite their economic and ecological importance, models that describe the influence of different factors on mushroom yield are few. These models would support multi-objective forest management and planning that takes into account mushroom production. This study aims at providing models for predicting the total yield of wild ectomycorrhizal mushrooms and, especially, of L group deliciosus and B. edulis. Mushroom data were collected in 18 permanent plots in pure even-aged Pinus sylvestris stands during fifteen consecutive years. Variables describing weather conditions, stand structure and local site characteristics were used as predictors in the modeling process. Rainfall and temperature were significant predictors in all the fitted models. In addition, the total yield of ectomycorrhizal fungi was significantly affected by dominant height and stand age. The production of L group deliciosus was influenced by dominant height and stand basal area. The equation fitted for B. edulis, to our knowledge, is the first model for this species. It shows that stand basal area is a strong factor influencing the yield. The equations presented in this study enable predictions of mushroom yield under different forest management schedules and climatic scenarios. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.