J&K Records First Successful Morel Mushroom Cultivation at SKUAST-K

Sheikh Junaid

Srinagar: In a major scientific breakthrough, a research scholar at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir (SKUAST-K) has successfully achieved the emergence of fruiting bodies of the highly prized Morchella (morel) mushroom under experimental conditions for the first time in Jammu and Kashmir.

The milestone was achieved by PhD scholar Kamran Muneer at the Shalimar Campus under the guidance of Dr Tariq Ahmad Sofi from the Division of Plant Pathology, with support from Vice Chancellor Prof Nazir Ahmad Ganai and Director Research Prof Haroon H Naik.

Morels, locally known as Guchhi or Kanegeich, are among the most expensive edible mushrooms and are known for their distinct honeycomb structure. Their cultivation has remained a global challenge due to the need for precise environmental conditions, including soil composition, temperature variation, and moisture balance.

The breakthrough follows years of field exploration, laboratory work, and repeated trials. The research involved collection of wild specimens from different terrains across Jammu and Kashmir, followed by isolation, culture development, spawn preparation, and controlled experimentation.

Multiple trials were conducted under outdoor, indoor, semi-controlled, and fully controlled environments to replicate natural conditions. Earlier attempts showed initial pin formation but failed to develop into full crops due to technical setbacks, including equipment malfunction.

However, continued refinement of techniques during the 2025–26 trials led to successful emergence and development of fruiting bodies, marking a key achievement in the region.

Officials said the development opens new avenues for scientific cultivation of morels in Jammu and Kashmir, with potential benefits for farmers and the local economy.

Further trials are planned across multiple locations to standardise cultivation techniques suited to local conditions, paving the way for wider adoption.