Detection of fungi associated with the spoilage of <i>Psidium guajava</i>, <i>Malus domestica</i> and <i>Persia americana</i> from selected markets within Kaduna metropolis.

Abstract

Ten samples each of Psidium guajava, Malus domestica and Persea americana were collected from Sabo Market, Station and Bakin Dogo Market all within Kaduna State. These fruits were Mycollogically analyzed using the Spread plate techniques for isolation and enumeration of Microorganisms. Five fungi genera were found as major contaminant present in most of the samples from the various markets which include Penicillium species Mucor species, Rhizopus species, Aspergillus species and Yeast. Aspergilus was found as the major contaminant present in most of the samples from the various markets while Mucor species was the lowest contaminant fungi. The high prevalence of these fungi demand appropriate control major against infection should be employed if farmers expect good performance of their produce. Proper storage facilities should be employed as improved means of transportation, should be achieved by proper loading of fruits to areas they are sold.

Key words: Fungi, Fruits and Microscopic Analysis.