Global Journal of Biology, Agriculture & Health Sciences

Abstract

FUNGI ASSOCIATED WITH SPOILAGE OF SOME EDIBLE VEGETABLES IN AND AROUND MINNA, NIGER STATE, NIGERIA

Tsado EK, Aghotor P, Ebitemi G, Oyeleke S B & Gana R W

Fungi associated with spoilage of some edible - vegetables fluted pumpkin Talfairia occidentalis, Africa amaranth Amranthus muricatus and bitterleaf Vernonia amegdalina were examined. The result revealed that fluted pumpkin (Talfairia occidentalis), African amaranth (Amranthus muricatus) and bitterleaf (Vernonia amegdalina) grown on irrigated farms and open gardens around Minna and its environs favored the development of fungal infestation. The vegetables grown in urban and suburban open gardens were used for the test. The prevention of fungal pathogens was also examined to avoid drastic chemical treatment or minimize its application. Three major fungi - Aspegillus sp.; Penicillum sp and Rizopours sp. were isolated from the green vegetables. Suggestions were made on how to reduce the load of these fungi by educating farmers on the need for using hygienic water for irrigation in producing eatable vegetables.

Published Date: 2013-03-27;