Optimum Measure of Cap Color in Agaricus bisporus Wild and Cultivated Strains

Cap color was characterized on a wide range of Agaricus bisporus strains. L, a and b tristimulus coordinates were tested by linear model analysis to determine color information related to each parameter. One model was retained: log(L/(100-L)) = α * H + β. Visual cap color variation was continuous and well described by log(L/(100-L)) or H parameters. In the wild, the range of color varied from white to dark brown which would enable mushroom breeding for cap color adapted to the market.