Page 1
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
D u r q the period of investigation (1995 to 2001) on post harvest diseases of
fruits and vegetables, periodic surveys were made in all the 14 revenue districts of
Kerala. Four to live major n-~arkets in each district were surveyed at least 3 times a
year. Result ol'the studies carried out during the period is divided into four parts, viz.
Part - A Post hawest fungal diseases of fruits
Part - B Post harvest fungal diseases of fruity
vegetables
Part - C Post harvest fungal diseases of tuberous
vegetables
Part - D Post harvest fungal diseases of under
utilized fruits
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PART - A
POST HARVEST FUNGAL DISEASES
OF FRUITS
During !he investigations on the post harvest diseases of fruits, infected fruits
from different districts were examined and studied. The fruits selected were (1) apple,
(2) banana, (3 ) custard apple, (4) guava, (5) jack fruit, (6) mango, (7) papaya, (8) pine
apple. (9) sapota. (10) santra orange and (1 1) water melon. Except apple and santra
orange other fruits are grown either in small scale or in large scale in the state of
Kerala. In apple and satitra orange a few diseases were noticed which were hitherto
not reported from Kerala.
A. 1. APPLE (Malus ~lvestris (L.) Mill.)
The diseases studied during the investigation are soft rot (Rhizopus nigricans
Ehr. ex Fr. and Penicillium expansum Link.), circular brown spot (Alternaria
uliernata (Fr.) Keissl.), black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.) and sour rot
(Geotrichum cundidum Link. ex Pers.).
Soft rot inkcted fruits collected from the markets of Thiruvananthapuram and
Palakkad showed the presence of only Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr. Besides, fruits
collected from 1;rnakulam markets were infected by both P. expansum and
R. niyricuns. Cultural and inoculation studies showed that the joint effect produced
severe infections rapidly resulted in heavy damage than when each fungus was used
individually.
In order to study the effect of injury in promotting the diseases, experiments
were conducted using both artificially injured and uninjured fruits. These experiments
confirmed that injured h i t s were easily affected by these pathogens. Sof? rot was
found to the favoured by humidity also. This disease was obsewed periodically
during the monsoon and caused severe damage to apple fruits in Ernakularn markets.
Black mould rot (.4.sprrgillu.r nrger V. Tiegh.) was also found to be very
Page 3
serious diseasc of apple dtxing storage. The injured fruits were found to be very
susceptible and damaged completely within 4 days of inoculation. This disease was
prevalent during monsoon months and observed repeatedly in the markets of Kannur.
Circular brown spot and sour rot were not so severe as soft rot and black mould
rot. These diseases are new reports from Kerala markets.
A. 2. BANANA (Musa paradkiaca L.)
Banana 1s extensively cultivated in Kerala and is also transported from
nearby states. Different varieties are available in the state and hence this fruit was
studied in a varietal level for post harvest fungal diseases. The varieties investigated
are (1) chorupoovon. (2) chenkadali. ( 3 ) nendran, ( 4 ) nendrapadatty, ( 5 )
njalippoovan. ( 6 ) palayamkodan, ( 7 ) poovan and (8) robusta. This is the first attempt
to study the post harvest diseases of banana in a varietal level. These fruits collected
from various pans of the State were affected by black mould rot (Aspergillus niger
V. Tiegh.), charcoal rot (Rhizoctonia hataticola (Taub.) Butl.), Phoma rot (Phoma
psidii P. Henn.), Alternaria rot (A. aliernata (Fr.) Keissl.), Fusarium rot (F. roseum
Link.), Rhizopus rot (R.nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.), waxy rot (Geotrichum candidum
Link.), black rot (Thie1oviop.r.i~ paradoxa (de Seynes) Hoehn.), Alternaria rot i b 5 ..,
( A . alternaiu (Fr.) Keissl.), Penicillium rot (P, digitatum Sacc.) and brown rot <:\.:'
(Botryodiplodia theobromar Sacc.). The pathogens responsible for these diseases
were isolated and cultured. Cross inoculation studies of these pathogens clearly
showed that almost all varieties were susceptible to these diseases. This investigation
confirmed that all these varieties are derived from hybrids of Musa acuminata and M
babisiana (called .M x , .sapientum) and showed a common character. Among these
diseases, black mould rot, Phorna rot and waxy rot were found to be very severe and
caused extensive damage to banana fiuits under storage. Black mould rot was
observed frequently in the markets of Kozhikkode during monsoon. Phoma rot was
prevalent in the Thiruvananthapuram markets and repeatedly observed. Humidity was
found to favour these diseases. These diseases are reported here as new to Kerala
markets
Page 4
A. 3. CUSTARD APPLE: (Annona sguamosa L.)
'Three post harvest fungal diseases, viz. black mould rot (Aspergillus niger
V. Tiegh.). Fusarium rot (F. oxysporum (Schl. ex Fr.) em. Snyd. et Hans. and
Trichoderma rot (7: lignorum (Tode.) Harz.) were observed in custard apple. Injury
and humidity were found to favour black mould rot. This disease caused severe
damage to the fruits in the Thiruvananthapuram markets during monsoon season.
Fusarium rot was also found to be a serious disease of injured custard apple,
confirmed by inoculation studies. Trichoderma rot was found to be a minor disease of
custard apple since the fruits became damaged on 6th day after inoculation.
The diseases noticed during the investigation, viz. black mould rot,
Fusarium rot and Trichoderma rot are reported for the first time from Kerala.
A. 4. GUAVA (Psidium guajava L.)
During the investigation guava fruits were found to be susceptible to five
fungal diseases, viz. black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.), Rhizopus rot
(R. nigricuns thr . ex Fr.), Penicillium rot (P. expansum Link. & P. digitatum Sacc.),
Fusarium rot (F. roseum Link.) and brown rot (Phoma psidii P. Henn.). Except !
: brown rot caused by Phoma psidii P. Henn., other diseases were not observed in the
Kerala markets, may be due to climatic variations.
Black mould rot was found to be a very serious disease in the markets of
Thiruvananthapuram during the monsoon months. The injured fruits were found to be
more susceptible to Rhizopus rot. Fully ripe fruits kept under humid conditions were
affected by Penicillium rot, confirmed by inoculation studies. Guava fruits were
seriously ai'fected by Fusarium rot, collected from the markets of
Thiruvananthapuram and E.rnakulam during the monsoon season. This disease was
found to occur periodically in these markets. Brown rot caused by Phoma psidii was
found to be a minor disease as it was observed in a few samples collected from
Kasargod markets. These diseases were not reported earlier from Kerala markets.
A. 5. JACK FRUIT (Artocarpus integrifolius Auct. non. L.f.)
During the investigation four major diseases were noticed in Jack fruits, viz.
black cottony rot (Rhizopus nigricuns Ehr. ex Fr.), black mould rot (Aspergillus
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niger V . Tiegh.), Fusarium rot (F. ucuminatum Ell. & Ev.), brown rot
(Botryodiplodiu theohromae Sacc.) and Phoma rot (Phoma vexans Sacc. & Syd.)
Harter. Black cottony rot was found to be a serious disease of jack fruit during
monsoon, in all the markets of Thiruvananthapuram, Emakulam, Kasargod and
Alappuzha. The fruits damaged during harvesting were easily affected by this disease
as confirmed by inoculation studies. Another disease which affect these h i t s
seriously was black mould rot. Fruits examined from Kottayam were frequently
affected by this disease. which occurred periodically. Fusarium rot was prevalent in
Thimvananthap~xam, Ernakulam markets and a few samples examined from
Kasargod markets. Injured fruits were found to be more susceptible to this disease
during the pre - monsoon months. Brown rot due to Botryodiplodia theobromae Sacc.
was observed periodically in the markets of Thiruvananthapuram causing severe
damage to jack fruits. Inoculation studies have shown that the injured fruits were
easily affected by this disease. Phoma rot was not so severe as other diseases. Though .. .. .
brown rot caused by Rhizoctonia bataticola (Taub.) Butl. is reported in 'muttan
varikka' from Kerala by Menon et a1 (1979), this disease was not observed in any of
the markets in Kerala during the study. The diseases observed during the
investigation are new to Kerala markets.
A. 6. MANGO (Mangifera indica L . )
Like banana, post harvest diseases of mango were studied in a varietal level
as these varieties are available in the Kerala markets. The local variety such as
'moovandan' and other popular and improved varieties of mango such as pairi,
suvarnarekhu. nrelum, chelan, banglora and mulgoa, were examined for fungal
diseases. Though post harvest diseases of mango fruits were studied in details in other
parts of India, studies on varietal level is the first attempt, as several varieties are
available in the state of Kerala.
Present investigation led to the identification of the following fungal diseases
in the Kerala markets. Black mould rot (AspergiNus niger V. Tiegh.), Penicillium
rot (P. digitarum Sacc.), Rhiopus rot (R.nigricans Ehr. ex. Fr.), Alternaria rot
(A. alternatu ( F r . ) Keissl.), Charcoal rot (Rhizoctonia bataticola (Taub.) Butl.),
Phoma rot (P. psidii P. Henn.), black rot (Thielaviopsis paradoxa (de Seynes) '
Page 6
Hoehn.).Cross inoculation studies of different pathogens confirmed that rnuvandan
and banghru varieties were resistant to Phoma rot as they produced disease
symptoms only after a week's inoculation. Black mould rot was found to be very
severe and caused extensive damages in all varieties of mango except neelum.
Rhizopus rot caused severe damage to chelan and rnulgoa collected from
Pathanamthitta and Thiruvananthapuram markets. Neelum var. of mango fruits were
affected by charcoal rot brought from Kollam and Malappuram markets. Black rot
was very serious disease of banglora variety of mango in the Pathanamthitta and
Wyanad markets. This disease occurred frequently and periodically during
MarchIApril months. Black rat was found to be a very serious disease of banglora
variety of wdngo. The injured fruits were easily affected by this disease. Charcoal
rot was frequently observed in neelum variety collected from the markets of
Emakulam and Kasargod. Mulgou fruits were affected by Penieillium rot under
humid conditions. The diseases recorded are new reports to Kerala.
A. 7. PAPAYA (Carica papaya L.)
During the market survey papaya fruits were found to be affected by
Fusarium rot (F : roseum Link.), anthracnose ((~olletotrichurn papayae Chona, Lall.
& Munjal), waxy rot (Geotrichurn candidurn Link.ex Pers.), black mould rot
(Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.), sooty mould (Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissl.) and
black soft rot (Mucor hiemalis Wehrn.). Fusarium rot was found to cause disease in
unripe and ripe fruits, but the ripe fruits were easily damaged. Anthracnose was a
serious disease of papaya fruits in the Kollam and Idukki markets during post-
monsoon months, observed periodically. Waxy rot was very common in ripe fruits,
found to be a very serious disease in the Thiruvananthapuram markets whereas this
disease was noticed only in a few samples collected from Kozhikkode and Kasargod
markets. Black mould rot was found to be severe when the h i t s were kept under
moist conditions. This disease was found to be prevalent in Pathanamthitta, Idukki
and Wyanad markets during monsoon months. Black soft rot and sooty mould were
observed only in a very few samples and caused very little damage to this fruit. These
diseases were found to be new to Kerala markets.
Page 7
A. 8. PINEAPPLE (Ananas sativus Schult.)
Fruit samples collected and examined from the markets of
Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam and Emakulam were severely affected by black rot
caused by ~hir.1avio~p.vi.s paradoxu (de Seynes.) Hoehn. Humidity was found to
favour this disease, confinned by inoculation studies. Fusarium rot (F. moniliforme
Scheld.) caused severe damage to pipeapple fruits under storage. This disease was
frequently observed in the Kollam markets. Black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V.
Tiegh.) was notlced in samples examined during post - monsoon months collected
from the Thrissur and Kasargod markets. This disease was found to spread during
storage. Penicillium rot (P. digitaturn Sacc.) was observed in some samples brought
from Kannur, which appeared as a minor disease. These diseases are not recorded
from Kerala and hence new to Kerala markets.
A. 9. SANTRA ORANGE (Citrus reticulata Blanco)
Santra orange IS transported to Kerala markets from various parts of India,
very popular and consumed widely by Keralites. Post harvest fungal diseases of this
fruit are not reported earlier from the state. The diseases recorded during the
investigation were black mould rot (AspergiNus niger V. Tiegh.) and soft rot
(Geohichum candidurn Link. ex Pers.). Both these diseases were severe in nature and
produced extens~re damage of the fruits under storage. Black mould rot was observed
in all the samples collected from Thiruvananthapuram, Emakulam and Kozhikkode
markets during pre - monsoon months. Sofi rot was prevalent in Thrissur and
Kozhikkode markets during the same period. It was also observed in a few samples
collected from Ernakulam markets. Black mould rot and soft rot are considered as
new reports of fungal diseases fiom Kerala markets.
A. 10. SAPOTA (Achras sapota L. )
Follow~ny fungal diseases were observed in the Kerala markets. They were
black rot (Alternuriu ullernata (Fr.) Keissl.), Fusarium rot (F. camptoceros
Wollenw & Reid . ) and black mould rot (AspergiNus niger V. Tiegh). Black rot was
found to be a very serious disease of sapota, favoured by injury. This disease was
found frequently and periodically in Thiruvananthapuram and Emakulam markets
Page 8
during monsoon months. Fusarium rot was found to be prevalent in Kozhikkode
markets during monsoon causing extensive damage to sapota fruits under storage.
Black mould rot is a serious disease of sapota in Kollam and Ernakulam markets
during monsoon. The injured or damaged fruits were found to be more susceptible to
this disease as confirmed by inoculation studies. Black rot, Fusarium rot and black
mould rot of sapota are not reported previously from Kerala markets.
A. 11. WATER MELON (CitruNus lanatus (Thunb.)Mats. & Nakai.)
Survey of water melons for post harvest fungal diseases in Kerala markets
noticed pink rot (F'usurium roseum Link.), Rhizopus rot (R. nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.)
and stem end rot (Boiryodiplodiu fheobronzae Sacc.). Pink rot was found to be
prevalent in Thiruvananthapuram and Kozhikkode markets during the pre - monsoon
months. It was also observed in a few samples collected from Ernakulam markets.
This disease caused severe damage to the water melons. Rhizopus rot was found in
injured or damaged fruits. This disease was noticed periodically in the markets of
Kollam, Ernakulam and Kozhikkode . Stem end rot was found to be a major disease
in Kollam and Emakulam markets causing extensive damage to water melons. This
disease was observed periodically during FebruaryIMarch months in Kollam and
Ernakularn markets. These diseases are not recorded earlier from Kerala.
During the course of investigation 74 post harvest hngal diseases were
collected and studied. During the survey diseased fruits were collected and examined
from various markets of Kerala, that too during different seasons of the year. About
61 diseases were found to be major diseases which caused severe damage to these
fruits. Most of' these diseases were found to be new to Kerala and some are new to
Indian markets. This type of study is a pincor effort of its kind. Several diseases are
due to improper handling during transport, loading and unloading, as injured ones
were easily affected by diseases (black mould rot of apple, Fusarium rot of custard
apple etc.). Some diseases were found to be due to inadequate storage conditions as
diseases were favoured by damp and humid conditions (soft rot of apple, Phoma rot
of banana etc.). By improving handling techniques and storage facilities most of these
diseases can be controlled in the markets of Kerala.
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NEW REPORTS FROM KERALA A -
SI. No.
1
2
3
4
5
FRUITS
Host
APPI,I:
BANANA
CUS'IAKII - APPI.1:
GUAVA
JACKI;RI.Lr
Disease
Soft rolt
C'ircular brown spot
Sour rot
Black nlould rot
Carcoal rot
Hlack rot
Penicillium rot
Waxy rot
Pho~na )rot
tusarium rot
Brown rot
Black mould rot
t'usariurn rot
l'richoderma rot
Black mould rot
Khizopus rot
I'enicillium rot
Pen~cillium rot
tusarium rot
lihizopus rot
Black mould rot
1;usarium rot
Pathogen
Rhizojms nigricuns Ehr. ex Fr.
Alternariu alternuta (Fr.) Keissl.
Geotrichum candidum Link.ex Pers.
A.sj)ergillu.s niper V. Tiegh.
Rhizoctonia bataticola ('Taub.) Butl.
Thielaviop.sis paradoxu (de Seynes ) Hoehn.
PeniciNium digitatum Sacc.
tieotrichum candidum Link. ex Pers.
Phoma psidii P. Henn.
Fusarium roseum Link.
Botryodiplodiu theobromae Sacc.
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
Fi~sm'wn qqmnm (Schl.ex Fr.) a Snydet Ham
Trichodermu lignorum (Tode) Harz.
AspergiNus niger V. Tiegh.
Rhizoppzrs nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
PeniciNium digitatum Sacc.
Penicillium expansum Link.
Fustrrium roseum Link.
Rhizopus nigricuns Ehr. ex Fr.
A.sprrgillus niger V. Tiegh.
Fusurium acuminalum Ell. & Ev.
Page 10
- il. lo. -
6
7
8
9
1 C
1 1
-
- Host
-
dAN(i0
PAPA1.A
'INt%\I'F'l.E
jAN'l'R/\ - ORANGE
SAPO'IA
WA.1 I1K - MI.1.ON
Phoma rot
f3rown 1.01
t3lack mould rot
I'cnicillium rot
Rhizopus rot
Altrmaria rot
C'harccral rot
Phoma rot
Black rot
L'u.strrilrm rot
Anthracnose
Waxy rot
Black mould rot
Sooty mould rot
Black soft rot
Black. rot
Fusarium rot
Black mould rot
I'cnicillium rot
tslack mould rot Soft rot
Black mould rot
Fusarium rot
Black mould rot
I'ink rot
Khi;copus rot
Stem end roc
Pathogen
Phomu vexans (Sacc. & Syd.) Harter.
Botrvodiplodiu theohrotnue Sacc.
A.spvrgil1us niger V. Tiegh.
Penrcillium digitalum Sacc.
Rhizopus nigricun.c Ehr. ex Fr.
Altrrnariu allernata (Fr.) Keissl.
Rhizocioniu bataticolu (Taub.) Butl.
Phoma psidii P. Henn.
Thieluvic~p.psis pamdoxu (de Seynes) Hoehn
Fusarium roseum Link.
C.olletotrichum papuyue Chona, Lall. & Munjal
Geotrichjrm candidum Link. ex Pers.
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
Ailernaria ulternafa (Fr.) Keissl.
Mucor hiemulis Wehm.
Thieluviopsis paradoxu (de Seynes) Hoehn.
Ftrsarium rnonilijbrme Scheld.
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
Pmicilliurn di,qitatum Sacc.
A.spergil1u.s nigrr V. Tiegh. Grotrichurn candidum Link. ex Pers.
Alternuria ulfrrnutu (Fr.) Keissl.
F'usarium crunptoceros Wollenw. & Reink.
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
';ir.~urium rosrum Link.
Yhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
Sotryodiplodiu theobromue Sacc.
Page 11
PART - B
POST HARVEST FUNGAL DISEASES
OF FRUITY VEGETABLES
O u t of the several fruity vegetables marketed in Kerala, few are cultivated
indigenouslq and few are transported from neighbouring states. The fruity
vegetables from the markets of different districts of Kerala were examined and
studied for fungal diseases. 'These vegetables include (1) ash gourd, (2) bitter gourd,
(3) bottle gourd. (4) bread fruit, (5) brinjal, (6) chilli, (7) chow-chow, (8) cluster bean,
(9) cow pea. (10) cucumber, (1 I ) drum stick, (12) French bean/common bean, (13)
Indian goosebeny, (14) lady's finger, (15) lima bean, (16) lime, (17) little gourd, (18)
pea, (19) pumpkin, (20) ridge gourd, (21) snake gourd, (22) sword bean and (23)
tomato. Of these peas, lime and tomato are largely transported to Kerala markets
ti.om neighbouring states
Though these fruits are largely consumed by Keralites very little research on
the post hawest fungal diseases was carried out earlier. Most of the fungal diseases
noticed during the investigation are found to be new to Kerala.
B. 1. ASH GOURD (Benincasa hispida (Thunb.) Cogn.)
Present study disclosed that this fruit was susceptible to Cladosporium rot
(C. fulvum Cke.), brown rot (Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.), waxy rot (Geotrichum
candidum Link. ex Pers.), halo spot (C'orynespora cassicola Berk. & Curt. Wei.),
Fusarium rot (F .semitectum Berk. & Rav.) and Mucor rot (Mhiemalis Wehm.).
Cladosporiurr~ rot was found to be very serious disease of ash gourd fruits during
monsoon, collected horn Thiruvananthapuram markets. The injured fruits were easily
affected by this pathogen. Brown rot affected the long stored injured fruits. A similar
disease caused by hfucor hiemalis was also noticed in Kasargod markets during the
period. Compared to Rhizopus rot, Mucor rot was very severe. Waxy rot was
Page 12
favoured by damp conditions under storage and frequently observed in the markets of
Thrissur and Kozhikkode. tlalo spot and Fusarium rot were not so severe as other
diseases. Halo spot was observed during the pre - monsoon months in long stored
fruits. Fusariulr~ rot affected the fruits very slowly and took 5 to 6 days for the
complete decay. The diseases are reported here as new to India.
B. 2. BlTTER GOURD (Mamordica charantia L.)
Four fungal diseases were investigated during the study, viz. brown rot
(Rhizopus nigricuns Ehr. ex Fr.), Fusarium rot (F. oxysporum (Schl. ex Fr.) em.
Snyd. et Hans.), black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.) and waxy rot
(Geotrichum cundidum Link. ex Pers.). Except Fusarium rot other diseases were
found to be severe and caused extensive damage to bitter gourd fruits, during storage.
Fusarium rot was commonly found in injured fruits. Complete damage was observed
after 4 - 5 days of inoculation. Black mould rot was very severe in Idukki and Kannur
markets during the post - monsoon months, and observed in a few samples collected
from Malappwam. Waxy rot caused extensive damage to bitter gourd during
monsoon. Except Fusarium rot caused by F. oxysporum (Sch1.e~ Fr.) em. Snyd. et
Hans. other diseases are reported for the first time from India.
B. 3. BOTTLE GOURD (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.)
Bottle gourd was found to be susceptible to waxy rot (Geofrichum candidum
Linkex Pers.) and Fusarium rot ( F moniliforme Scheld.). Waxy rot was severe
during monsoon and observed periodically in the Thiruvananthapuram and Kannur
markets. Fusarium rot was observed in some samples collected from Pathanamthitta
and Alappuzha markets during the pre - monsoon months. This disease was not so
severe as waxy rot. Though this fruit was reported to be affected by Diplodia sp.
(D. natu1ensi.s P. Evans), anthracnose (Collerotrichurn lagenarium (Pass.) Ell. ex
Halst.), cottony rot (Fusarium spp.) and soft rot (Pythium aphanidermatum (Eds.)
Fitz.), these diseases were not observed in Kerala. The diseases noticed during the
survey are new to Indian markets.
Page 13
B. 4. BREAD FRUIT (Artocarpus rommunis Frost.)
A single disease was recorded earlier in bread fruit from India and abroad,
caused by l'hytophthoru pulmivoru Butl. It is also known from Kerala. But present
investigation led to the identification of 4 more hngal diseases prevalent in Kerala
markets, V ~ L . brown rot (Botryodiplodia theobromae Sacc.), brown soft rot
(Rhizoctoniu hututicolu (Taub.) Butl.). black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.)
and Fusarium rot (I .: roseurn Link.). Injured h i t s were found to be susceptible to
brown rot which caused extensive damage to the fruits. Long stored fruits were
affected by brown soft rot. 'This disease was frequently observed in the markets of
Thrissur and Malappuram during pre - monsoon period. Black mould rot and
Fusarium rot were also found to cause severe damage to injured fruits. These
diseases are new reports to India.
B. 5. BRINJAL (Solanum melongena L.)
Present investigation revealed that this fruity vegetable was affected by
diseases such as Alternaria rot (A. alternata (Fr.) Keissl.), cottony leak
(Phytophthortr purasitica Dast.), black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.),
Fusarium rot (1.: clxy.sporum (Schl. ex. Fr.) em. Snyd. et Hans.) and brown rot
(Rhizopus nigriricuns Ehr. ex Fr.). Allernaria rot was not so severe but observed
frequently in the Palakkad and Kasargod markets during February - April. Cottony
leak was a serious post harvest disease of brinjal during rainy season. Black mould
rot was very conlmon and affected these fruits severely. The fruits collected from
Kollam, Palakkad and Kasargod were periodically affected by this disease. Fusarium
rot and brown rot were observed in the markets of Emakulam. Fusarium rot was
prevalent during the monsoon months whereas it was absent in the pre - monsoon
months. Among these diseases Alternaria rot and brown rot were earlier recorded, but
others are not reported from Indian markets.
B. 6. CHILLI (Capsicum anrruum L.)
During the survey three diseases were noticed in punjent variety of chilli and
two diseases from sweet variety. Black rot due to Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissl.
was commonlq obsewed in the punjent variety collected from the markets of
Page 14
Thiruvananthapuram, Idukki and Kozhikkode during monsoon. Humidity was found
to be favourable for this disease. Fusarium rot (F. semirectum Berk. & Rav.) was
noticed as a serlous disease in the markets of Malappuram and Kannur during the
post - monsoon months. Black mould rot (AspergiNus niger V. Tiegh.) was noticed
in long stored h i t s . Anthracnose caused by (,'olle~otrichum capsici( Syd.) Butl. &
Bisby was observed periodically in the markets of Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha
and Kozhikkode during rainy season in sweet variety. Brown rot (Drechslera
tetrameru (Mc Kinny) Subram. & Jain was observed in sweet variety during
pre - monsoon rnonths in the markets of Alappuzha and ldukki markets and in some
samples collected from Kannur markets. Fusarium rot and Altemaria rot are earlier
reported in punjent variety are also known to cause diseases in the punjent variety in
the Kerala markets. Anthracnose was not observed in punjent variety but observed in
the sweet variety. Black mould rot and brown rot are found to be new to Indian
markets. Alternaria rot, Fusarium rot and anthracnose are new to Kerala markets.
B. 7. CHOW CHOW (Sechium edule (Jacq.) Sw.)
Fungal diseases noticed during the investigation were waxy rot (Geotrichum
candidum Link. ex Pers.), black spot (Cluwularia luberculata Jain), brown rot
(Rhizopus nigricuns Ehr. ex Fr.), white cottony rot (Fusarium rigidiiscula (Berk. &
Br.) Sacc. and black rot (Allernaria alternata (Fr.) Keissl). Waxy rot was found to be
a very serious disease of chow chow, frequently observed in the markets of
Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam and Kasargod during monsoon. This disease was
reported earlier from Maharashtra. A very unique rot was observed in the markets of
Wyanad during post - monsoon months caused by Curvularia tuberculata (black
spot). Brown rot was found to be serious in some markets in Malappuram and Idukki
when these fruits were stored in humid conditions. Black rot was not so severe but
noticed in the markets of Thiruvananthapuram and Pathanamthitta during the
pre - monsoon months. Among these diseases investigated, all except waxy rot are
new to Indian markets.
B. 8. CLUSTER BEAN (Cyamopsis tetragonolobus (L.) Taub.)
Three diseases were noticed during the study, viz. Fusarium rot (F. roseum
Link.), Sclerotium rot ( S ro!fsii Sacc.) and black rot (Alternaria alternata (Fr.)
Page 15
Keissl.). Fusar~um rot was found to be a seiious disease during monsoon in the
markets of Ernakulam and Thiruvanantbapuram. Occassionally this disease was
observed in some samples collected from Thrissur. Sclerotium rot was observed
during post - monsoon months, periodically in the markets of Kollam and
Kozhikkode markets. The severity of the disease was found to be influenced by
humid conditions, confirmed by inoculation studies. Black rot was a minor disease
noticed in somt: samples collected from Emakulam markets during post - monsoon
months. These diseases are not reported earlier from Indian markets.
B. 9. COW PE:A (Vigna sinensis Endl.)
Five diseases were studied during the investigation in cow pea. They were
anthracnose ((blletotrichum lindemuthianum (Sacc. & Magn.) Br.& Cav.),
Alternaria pod spot (Fr.) Keissl.), Fusarium rot (F.nivale (Fr.) Ces.), Rhizopus rot
(R. nigricuns Mr. ex Fr.) and wet rot (Choanephora cucurbitarum (Berk. & Rav.)
Thaxt.). Though anthracnose due to (L'olletobichum spp.) reported earlier from ' .
Kerala as a pre - harvest disease, it is now reported as a post harvest disease of
cow pea for the first time in India.
B. 10. CUCUMBER (Cucumk sativus L.)
In cucumber following diseases were observed during the present survey. Soft
rot (C'unninghumelltr echinulata Thaxt.), Fusarium rot (F.semitectum Berk.& Rav.)
and brown rot (Rhizopu.~ nigricans Ehr.ex Fr.). Soft rot was observed frequently in
the markets of Pathanamthitta and Emakulam. The injured fruits were found to be
more susceptible to this disease. This disease caused extensive damage during rainy
season. Fusariutn rot was severe in the fruits collected from Kottayam and Kasargod
markets dur~ng January - March. Brown rot was also common in the markets of
Pathanamthitta and Kottayam markets during monsoon. The diseases observed during
the investigation are new to Indian markets.
B. 11. DRtJM STICK (Moringa pferygosperma Gaertn.)
In drum stick five post harvest fungal diseases bad been noticed during the
investigation. They were brown rot (Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.), pink rot
(Fusarium rohrum Link.). black mould rot (Asperginus niger V. Tiegh.), Alternaria
Page 16
blemish ( ,t . cil~crncrtu (Fr.) Keissl.) and black soft rot (Mucor hiemalis Wehm.).
Brown rot was a serious disease periodically observed in the markets of
Thiruvananthapuram, Emakulam and Kannur during monsoon when stored in heaps.
Pink rot was observed in the markets of Kollam, Kozhikkode and Kottayam during
pre - monsoon months. l'his disease was found to be severe in the samples examined
from Kollrun and Kottayam markets. Black mould rot was found to be more severe
than brown rot and pink rot as the disease spread very rapidly and caused damage of
the whole heap within a short period. This disease was observed in all the samples
examined in the markets of Thiruvananthapuram, Emakulam and Kozhikkode during
the monsoon months. Black soft rot was noticed as severe diseases in the markets of
Thiruvananthapuram. Injured fruits were found to be more susceptible to this disease.
Alternaria blern~sh was not so severe as other diseases and observed in a few samples
collected from Kottayam and Kozhikkode markets.
The d~seases noticed during the investigation are new to Indian markets.
B. 12. FRENCH BEAN / COMMON BEAN (Phaseolus vulpris L.)
During the investigation four fungal diseases were observed in French bean,
viz. brown rot (Hhizopus nipicans Ehr. ex Fr.), Fusarium rot (I? semitectum Berk.
& Rav.), black mould rot (,4spergillus niger V. Tiegh.) and Alternaria rot (A.
alternata (Fr.) Keissl. J. Brown rot was found to be a very serious disease of French
bean during the post - inonsoon months as this disease was frequently observed in the
markets of Thiruvananthapuram, Alappuzha and Wyanad. Fusarium rot was very
severe during monsoon was found to be favourable for the rapid decay of the fruits.
This disease was noticed in almost all samples collected from Pathanamthitta, Idukki
and Kannur. Black mould rot was also favoured by high humidity, observed in the
samples taken frorn gunny bags during pre - monsoon months. Alternaria rot was
found to be not so severe as other diseases as it was observed in a few samples
collected and examined tiom Alappuzha markets.
Though anthracnose (Cbllctotrichum lindemuthianum (Sacc. &: Magn.) Bri. & 8
Cav. and cottony leak (Phylophfhora spp.) reported earlier from Kerala were not
observed during the. investigation. Brown rot, Fusarium rot, black mould rot are new
to Indian markets. Alternaria rot is a new report from Kerala.
Page 17
B. 13. INDlAN GOOSEBERRY (Emblica offinale Gaertn.)
Verq few fungal diseases were observed in Indian goosebeny such as black
mould rot (Asprrgi//u.s niger V. Tiegh) and Penicillium rot (P. expansum Link. and
P. digitarum Sacc.). Both these diseases were found to be serious post harvest
diseases of this fruit as they occurred periodically and caused severe damage. Black
mould rot was favoured by injury. Penicillium rot due to P. expansum was observed
in samples collected from Kottayam and Ko~hikkode, whereas P. digitatum was
observed in samples collected from Wyanad and a few samples collected from
Kozhikkode. A few samples from all these markets also showed the presence of both
P, expansum and P. digitutunz.
Fruit rot due to A. niger V. Tiegb. and Penicillium spp. are earlier reported
from Indian markets but these diseases are new reports from Kerala markets.
B. 14. LADY'S FINGER / OKRA (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench.
During the survey post harvest diseases such as black mould rot (Aspergillus
niger V. Tiegh.), Fusarium rot (F. oxysporum (Schl. ex Fr.) em. Snyd. et Hans.) and
black soft rot (Mirror hiemalis Wehm.) were observed in Lady's finger. Black mould
rot was found to he a serious disease during the pre - monsoon period. The injured
fruits as well as those kept under humid conditions were found to be more susceptible
to this disease. Fusarium nlt was observed in the samples collected from
Thir~vanantha~uram and Malappuram. The injured fruits were found to be easily
affected by this disease.
Except rot due to I; oxysporum other diseases are not reported from India.
Black mould rot, Fusarium rot and black soft rot are new to Kerala markets.
B. 15. LIMA BEAN (Phaseolus Iwnatws L.)
Diseases noticed during the investigation were brown rot (Rhizopus
nigricans Ehr. ex F r . ) . black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.), Fusarium rot
( F acuminatum t i l l . & Ev.) and wet rot (('loanephora cucurbitarum (Berk. & Rav.)
Thaxt. Brown rot \was found to be a very serious disease of lima beans observed
periodically in the markets of Kollam, Thrissur and Kannur markets. The injured
fruits were easily affected by this disease. Dry rot caused by R. nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
Page 18
was earlier reported from Maharashtra. Black mould rot was found to be prevalent in
the markets of Pathanamthitta and Malappuram. It was also observed in a few
samples collected from Kozhikkode markets during post - monsoon period. Fusarium
rot was found to be not so severe as brown rot and black mould rot as this disease was
observed in a few samples brought from Kannur markets. Wet rot was found to be
serious when the fruits were stored under humid conditions. This disease was noticed
periodically in Thrissur and I'athanamthitta markets during post - monsoon months.
Black mould rot, Fusarium rot and wet rot are not reported previously kom
Indian markets. Brown rot is a new report from Kerala.
B. 16. LIME (Citrus aurantijblia (Christm.) Swing.)
Lime was found to be comparatively less affected by fungal diseases under
Kerala climate. The fungal diseases noticed during the investigation were Fusarium
dry rot (I.: nivale (Fr.) Ces.), black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.) and
Trichoderma rot (7: viride Pers. ex Fr.). Fusarium rot was found in some samples
collected and examined from the markets of Palakkad during pre - monsoon months. . ,,
A few simples examined from Alappuzha and Idukki also showed their presence. '.
Black mould rot was found to be a very serious disease of lime during the
pre - monsoon months. This disease was frequently observed in the markets of
Alappuzha, Idukki and Wyanad. Trichodenna rot was a minor disease, observed only
in a very few samples collected from Idukki and Wyanad. The injured fruits were
easily affected by this disease.
Diseases like Phytophthora rot (P. palmivora Butl.), citrus scab (Elsinoe
fawcetti Bitancourt & Jenkins) and rot due to specices of Penicillium reported earlier
from other parts o India were not observed in Kerala markets. The diseases of lime
noticed during the survey are not reported earlier from Indian markets.
B. 17. LITTLE: GOURD ((bccinia indica W. & A,)
Little gourd fruits examined during the survey were affected by Fusarium rot
(F oxy.rporum (Schl. ex Fr.) em. Snyd. et Hans.) and soft rot (Pythium
aphanidermarurn (Eds.) 1:itz.)'. Fusarium rot was found to be a serious disease in the
markets of Alappuzha. Ko~hrkkode during the post - monsoon months. The injured
Page 19
fruits were easily affected by this disease, periodically observed in these markets.
Soft rot was also severe, observed frequently in the Thrissur and Malappuram
markets. This disease was noticed in the f ~ i t s stored in heaps.
Though little gourd is affected by anthracnose (Collectotrichum spp.), black
rot (Alternuriu trnuis Auct.) and soft rot (Choanephoru spp.). from other parts of
India, these diseases were not observed in the Kerala markets during the
investigation. Fruit rot due to F oxysporum alone was observed during the study. The
diseases noticed, viz. Fusarium rot and soft rot are new to Kerala markets.
B. 18. PEA (Pisum sativum L.)
Peas are transported to Kerala markets from the neighbouring states. This
fruity vegetable was found to be affected by anthracnose (Colle~otrichum pisi Pat.)
and cottony leak (Phytophthora paru.~irica Dast.). These diseases were found to be
very serious in the Kerala markets. These h i t s were affected by anthracnose when
they were kept in humid conditions. It was observed periodically in the markets of
Pathanamthitta, ldukki and Kozhikkode during the survey. Cottony leak was noticed
in the fruits kept in bamboo baskets during storage. This disease was frequently
observed in the markets of Pathanamthina and Kasargod.
These two diseases are reported earlier from other parts of India especially ,
from Maharashtra. But they are new to Kerala markets. Pod spot due to specices of
Alternaria and cottony white rot by specices of Fusarium were not observed in
Kerala markets.
B. 19. PUMPKIN (Cucurbita moschata Duch. ex Poir.)
During the investigation fungal diseases such as black mould rot (Aspergillus
niger V. Tiegh.), Fusarium rot (F. roseum Link.), soft rot (Rhizopus nigricans Ehr.
ex Fr.) and blue mould rot (Penicillium expansum Link.). Black mould rot was
found to be a very serious disease of pumpkin noticed periodically in the markets of
Alappuzha, Kozhikkode and Kannur during post - monsoon months. The injured or f i , -
., . . ,-, <.", .,., . , .,
cut pieces of this fruit was found to be affected by this disease. Fusarium rot was
observed in leti outs kept in shops, kitchen stores and the fruits stored in humid
conditions. This disease was found to spread very rapidly in Ernakulam and Wyanad.
Page 20
Soft rot was noticed during the post - monsoon months in the samples examined
from Kozhikkode and Kannur markets. The injured fruits were easily affected by this
disease. Blur n~ould rot was not so severe as other diseases. This disease was
observed in the cut pieces kept in kitchen stores and small shops in
Thiruvananthapuram and Kannur.
Though cottony white rot due to species of Fusarium was observed in other
parts of India, rot due to F roseum of pumpkin is a new report from Kerala. The
disease. soft rot (Rhizopus nigr~cun.\ Ehr. ex Fr.) is a new report from Kerala.
Blue mould rot is reported for the first time from Indian markets
B. 20. FUDGE GOURD (Lufla aculangula (L.) Roxb.)
Present investigation of the post harvest fungal diseases in the Kerala markets
noticed Fusarium rot ( F oxy.~porum (Schl. ex Fr.) em. Snyd. et Hans.), cottony leak
(Phytophthoru parasilica Dast.), waxy rot (Georrichum candidum Link. ex Pers.),
black soft rot (Mucor rucemo.vus Schipper) and brown rot (Rhizopus nigricans Ehr.
ex Fr.). Fusarium rot was found to be a serious disease of ridge gourd during
monsoon in samples collected from the markets of Thiruvananthapuram, Idukki and
Kozhikkode markets. rhis disease was observed periodically. Cottony leak was
observed in Kollarn and Emakulam markets during monsoon. This disease was found
to cause extensive damage during storage. Waxy rot was noticed in a few samples
brought from the markets of Thiruvananthapuram and Emakulam. This disease was
frequently observed in the fruits kepts in humid storage conditions. Black soft rot was
found frequently in injured fruits. Brown rot was not so severe as other diseases and
observed in some samples brought from the markets of Thiruvananthapuram. These
diseases except Fusarium rot are not recorded earlier from anywhere in India.
B. 21. SNAKE GOURD (Trichosanthes anguina L.)
Survey in the Kerala markets noticed 3 diseases which caused extensive
damage to this frulty vegetable. They were Fusarium rot (F. oxysporum (Schl. ex
Fr.) em. Snyd. et ttans.), black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.) and soft rot
(Cunninghumellu r~:hinul~rtu Thaxt.) Fusarium rot was observed frequently in injured
fruits examined from the markets of Emakulam, Pathanamthitta and Malappuram
during the monsoon. As these fruits are elongated and their soft texture, the fruits are
Page 21
easily broken during transport and transit. The damaged fruits were affected first,
followed by the fresh fruits. Black mould rot was found to be severe in the markets of
Alappuzha and Emakulam during monsoon. A few samples brought from
Kozhikkode was also found to be affected by this disease. Soft rot was observed in ,,: , c
the markets of 'l'hrissur and Malappurarn during post - monsoon months in the fruits
stored in heaps. This disease was found to be severe and caused extensive damage.
The diseases observed during the survey were not reported earlier from Indian
markets.
B. 22. SWORD BEAN (Canavelia ensifomis D.C. Baker)
Sword bean was found to be affected by diseases such as anthracnose
((Jolletotrichum capsici (Syd.) Butl. & Bisby) and Alternaria pod spot (A. alternata
(Fr.) Keissl.). Both diseases were found to cause minor damage to this fruity
vegetable. The h i t s were made ugly and affected the market value. Anthracnose was
observed in the samples collected and examined from the markets of
Thiruvananthapuram. Alappuzha and Palakkad.
Though anthracnose due to C'olletotrichum lindemuthianum (Sacc. & Magn.)
Br. & Cav. is reported earlier from Kerala by Nair and Menon (1983), this species
was not observed during the survey instead C. capsici was found to cause this
disease. This pathogen is a new report from Indian markets. Collar rot due to
Sclerotium roosii reported earlier from Kerala (Sarnraj & Jose, 1969) was also not
observed during the survey. Rot caused by A. alternata (Fr.) Keissl. is a new report
from Kerala.
B. 23. TOMATO (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.)
Tomato fruit is an extensively studied fruity vegetable, transported to Kerala
markets. 7'his t ~ i t is repon.ed to be affected by several fungal diseases, as reported
from other parts of India. This is a first attempt to study the fungal diseases in Kerala
markets. During the investigation five diseases were observed and studied in detail,
viz. Alternaria rot (A, alfernata (Fr.) Keissl.), Fusarium rot (F. solani (Mart.)
Sacc.), black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.), brown rot (Rhizopus
nigricans F.hr. ex Fr.) and sour rot (Geotrichum candidum Link. ex Pers.). Except
Page 22
Alternaria rot other diseases were found to be severe and cause extensive damage to
this fruit. Alternaria rot was very slow and observed in the fruits stored for longer
periods observed during JanuaryIFebruary months in the markets of
Thiruvananthapuram and Ernakulam. Fusarium rot was very severe and affected the
fiuits which were stored in humid storage conditions. This disease was observed
periodicall) in all markets In Kollam, Palakkad and Kannur during monsoon. Black
mould rot was prevalent in the markets of Thiruvananthapurarn and Kasargod during
post - monsoon period. f i e injured fruits were found to the easily affected by this
disease. Brown rot was observed in samples collected from the markets of Kollam,
Emakulam and Kannur during pre - monsoon months. This disease was found to
cause severe damage to tomato fruits. Injured ripe fruits were found to be easily
affected b) sour rot. 'This disease was noticed in the samples collected from
Ernakulam, Palakkad markets and a few samples brought from Kasargod markets.
The diseases came across during the survey are earlier reported from other
parts of ind~a. l'hese diseases were found to be new to Kerala markets.
To sum up. during the survey of post harvest fungal diseases of fruity
vegetables from the markets of Kerala during various seasons led to the identification
and study of 86 diseases of which about 72 were found to be serious and caused
extensive damage to these fruity vegetables. Out of these 53 fungal diseases are new
to Indian and 26 are new to Kerala markets. The fungal diseases were frequently
observed in injured fruits as these vegetables were handled carelessly during
harvesting, loading, unloading and transport. Some of these diseases spread due to
damp and humid storage conditions. Most of these diseases can be prevented by
careful handling and improved storage facilities.
Page 23
REPORTS FROM KERALA NEW TO INDIA
SI. No.
1
3
4
5
B - FRUITY
Host
BrnRGC)uRD
m3am1
BREAD F'KUIT
BRINJAI.
White cottony rot
Alten~aria rot
FuFcPiwn ~ S c N . a c F ~ ) n t StycLetHan
C'urt~ularia tuberculaia Jain
Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
Fusarium rigidiiscula (Berk. & Br.) Sacc.
Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissl.
VEGETABLES
Disease
Brown rot
Black mould rot
Waxy rot
Waxy rot
Fusiaium rot
Brown rot
Brown soft rot
Black mould rat
Fusarium rot
Cottony leak
Black mould rot
Pathogen
Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex. Fr.
Asj>ergillus niger V. Tiegh.
Geotrichum candidum Link. ex Pers.
Geotrichum candidum Link. ex Pers.
Fusarium monilgorme Scheld.
Botryodiplodia rheobromae Sacc.
Rhizoctonia haiaticola (Taub.) Butl.
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
Fusarium roseurn Link.
Phytophthora parasifica Dast.
Aspergillus niger V.Tiegh.
Page 24
- Host
:LIJSlFK B W
:OW P t 4
XICUMBER
]RUM STICK
FRE-CH BbAN/
X3MMoN IBFN
LADY'S t. INCiEF
Disease Pathogen
Fusarium rot
Sclerotium rot
Black rot
Altemaria pod spc
Fusarium rot
Rhizopus rot
Soft rot
F usarium rot
Rhiz.opus rot
Brown rot
Pink rot
Black mould rot
Altemaria blemis
Black soft rot
Brown rot
1:usarium rot
Black mould rot
Black mould rot
Black soft rot
Fusarium roseum Link.
Yclerotium rolfsii Sacc.
411ernaria alternata (Fr.) Keissl.
4lternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissl.
Fusarium nivale (Fr.) Ces.
Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
Cunninghamella echinulata Thaxt.
Fusarium semitecrum Berk. & Rav.
Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
Fusarium roseum Link.
Aspergillus niger V . Tiegh.
Allernaria alternata (Fr.) Keissl.
Mucor hiemalis Wehm.
Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
Fu,surium semitectum Berk. & Rav.
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
Mucor hiemalis Wehm.
Page 25
NEW REPORTS FROM KERALA
Pathogen
C71udosporium ,fulv~im Cke.
Rhizop~rs nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
Geotrichum candidurn Link. ex Pers.
Corynesporu ca.ssicola Berk. & Curt. Wei.
Fusurium semitectum Berk. & Rav.
Mucor hiemulis Wehm.
F U S C I T ~ ~ ony.spc~rum (Schl. ex Fr.) em. Snyd et Han
Alternuria ulternu~a (Fr.) Keissl.
Fu.uurium sernitectum Berk. & Rav.
C'olletotrichum capsici (Syd.) Butl. & Bisbq
Alternaria ullernata (Fr.) Keissl.
A.spergil1u.s niger V. Tiegh.
Penicillium expansum Link.
Penicillium digitatlim Sacc.
Fusm'zm m ( y m u n (Schl. ex Fr.) an Snyd. et Han
Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
VEGETABLES
Disease
C'ladosporium rot
Brown rot
Waxy rot
lialo spot
Fusarium rot
Mucor rot
Fusarium rot
Black rot
tusarium rot
Anthracnose
Alterr~aria rot
Black mould rot
Penicillium rot
Penicillium rot
tusarium rot
Brown rot
B - SI. No.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
FRUIT\'
Host
AS11 <;Ol IUD
BIT7'1,U - (iOlJRD
CI111.1.1
FRENCIi Bt-AN.
COMMON nEAh
INDIAN -
(;OOS[;H t R R Y
1.ADY.S -
FIN(iI<R
L,lMABI.AN
Page 26
$1. io. - 8
9
10
11
-
Host Disease
PEA
SWOl<D . BEAN
TOM,YI ( )
Anthracnose
Cottony leak
Fusarium rut
Soft rot
Altemaria pod spc
Altenlaria rot
I; usarium rot
Black. mould rot
Brown rot
Sour rot
Pathogen
Colletotrichum p i ~ i Pat.
Phylophrhora parasiticu Dast.
Fusarium roseum Link.
Rhizo~pus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
Alternuria trllernafa (Fr.) Keissl.
Allernaria nlternata (Fr.) Keissl.
Fusarium solani (Mart.) Sacc.
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
Geotrichum cundidum Link. ex Pers.
Page 27
PART - C'
POST HARVEST FUNGAL DISEASES
OF TUBEROUS VEGETABLES
These vegetables come under two groups - I) root tubers and 2) stem tubers.
The root tubers studied were, beet root, carrot, cassava (Tapioca) and sweet potato.
The stem tubers were, country potato. elephant ear (taro), elephant foot yam, ginger,
potato and yam. 'Though the diseases of these crops were investigated earlier in the
field, not much work has been done in the post harvest stage, especially in this part of
the country.
During the investigation in different markets throughout Kerala, several
diseases were not~ced. Beet root. carrot and potato are transported to Kerala markets
from the neighbouring states. Several diseases affected these vegetables during
storage.
C.1. BEET ROUT (Beta vulgaris L.)
In beet root two fungal diseases were studied, viz. Fusarium rot
(F. acuminatum Ell.& Ev.) and brown soft rot (Rhizoctonia bararicola (Taub.) Butl.
Fusarium rot was lound to be a serious disease of beet root during monsoon in the
markets of Thiruvananthapuram. Ernakulam and Kasargod. The injured tubers were
found to be easily atlected by this disease. Brow1 soft rot was observed in a few
samples studied tiom Ernakulam and Idukki.
Diseases such as brown rot (Geotrichum candidum Link.), cottony white rot
(Fusurium oxysporum (Schl. e x Fr.) em. Snyd. et Hans.) and creepy white rot
(Sclerolium ro&Sii Sacc.) reported earlier from other parts of India were not noticed in
Kerala markets. The diseases such as Fusarium rot and brown soft rot are new
reports from Indian markets.
Page 28
C. 2. CARROT (Daucus carota I . . )
Four fungal diseases were observed in carrot during the study. They were
soft rot (Fu.v(rriurn oxy.sporum (Schl. ex Fr.)em. Snyd. et Hans.) black rot
(Alternuritr c~lrernalu (Fr.) Keissl.) and brown rot (Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.).
Soft rot was found to be very severe during monsoon in the markets of Emakulam,
Kollam and Kozhikkode and caused extensive damage. Sour rot was also found to be
a very serious disease of carrot in Palakkad and Kannur markets. The injured tubers
were found to be easily affected by this disease. A few samples collected and
examined from the markets of Idukki were also affected by this disease. Brown rot
was severe in Kannur markets whereas this disease was observed only a few samples
brought from Idukki and Palakkad. injured fruits were found to be very easily
affected by this disease. Black rot was seen in some samples brought from Kollam
and Emakulam. I his disease .was not so severe as other diseases.
Tuber rot due to specices of Fusarium, Allernaria and Rhrzopus are reported ,
earlier from other parts of India. The fungal diseases of carrot revealed during the , study are nem to Kerala. Rot due to Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. reported earlier as a
major disease from Assam and West Bengal was not observed in Kerala markets.
C. 3. CASSAVA /TAPIOCA (Manihot esculenta Crantz.)
Four fungal diseases were observed during the investigation in cassava, viz.
black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.), brown rot (Rhizopus nigricans Ehr.
ex Fr.), Scytalidium rot (S lignic~ola Pesante) and waxy rot (Geotrichum candidum
Link. ex Pers.) Black mould rot was observed during pre - monsoon months in the
markets of Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam and Kasargod, caused extensive damage.
This disease was found to be favoured by high humidity. Brown rot was observed in
samples brought tiom Emakulsun and Palakkad markets and a few samples collected
from Malappuritm. This disease was found to be severe during the post - monsoon
months. Scytalidium rot and waxy rot were observed in injured tubers.
Scytalidium rot was found to be minor disease as it was observed in a few
samples brought from Kottayam and Palakkad markets. They were also noticed in
Kozhikkode and l'hiruvananthquram markets. The diseases observed during the
survey are new to lndian markets.
Page 29
C. 4. SWEET POTATO (Ipomoea batatas L..) Poir.
A few tiingal diseases such as black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.),
brown rot (Rhirocforriu hatufico/u (Taub.) Butl.) and Fusarium rot (F. oxysporum
(Schl. ex Fr . ) em. Snyd, et I-lans. were observed and studied in detail during the
investigatiotl.
Black niould rot was very severe in the markets of Pathanamthitta, Thrissur
and Kasargod during monsoon. Humidity and injury were found to favour the rapid
decay of these tubers. Brown rot was observed in a few samples collected and
examined froni the markets of Thrissur and Malappuram. Fusarium rot was observed
in a few samples collected from Pathanamthitta and Alappuzha during the
pre - monsoon months. 'This disease appeared to he a minor disease.
Black mould rot is recorded earlier from other parts of India as a minor
disease was found to be of' much significance in the Kerala markets. Brown rot due
to Rhizocloniu soluni reported earlier is not observed in the Kerala markets instead '
R. batalicoiu uas observed :in Kerala markets.
C. 5. COUNTRY POTATO (Coleuspantiflorus Benth.)
Fungal diseases of leaves caused by Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissl.,
Fusarium trverrtrceum (Fr.) Sacc. and wilt due to Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. are reported
earlier from country potato. Fungal diseases of tubers are not reported from anywhere
in India. Three fungal diseases were noticed and studied in detail in this tuberous
vegetable. They were soft rot (Fusurium maniliforme Scheld.), brown rot (Rhizopus
nigricans tIhr. ex Fr.) and waxy rot (Geotrichum candidum Link. ex Pers.). Soft rot
was found to be a very serious disease of country potato in the markets of Kollam,
Idukki and Kozhikkode. The injured fruits were easily affected by this disease.
Brown rot also caused severe damage to this crop in the markets of Idukki and
Palakkad. This disease was also noticed in some samples examined from Emakulam
markets. The injured tubers were easily affected by this disease. Brown rot also
caused severe damage to this crop in the markets of Idukki and Palakkad. This
disease was also noticed in some samples examined from Emakulam markets. The
injured tubers were easily affected by this disease. Waxy rot was found to be
Page 30
prevalent during FebruaryIMarch and frequently observed in the samples collected ., . 7
j." and examined from the markets of Kollam and Palakkad. As these tubers are smaller i,.'
7 .. i ,, ., / ~. \i; i
in size and the harvesting practice resulted in the wounding or injury, led to the - > Q . t
spoilage by the attack of' these fungal pathogens. These diseases are new records to ,, . .. . .. ,
India. I,.
C. 6. ELEPHANT EAR 1 TARO (Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott.)
Present investigation revealed that this tuberous vegetable was affected by
soft rot (Sclerolium rolfiii Sacc.) and Fusarium rot (Fsolani (Mart. Sacc.). These
two diseases were found to be very serious and caused extensive damage. Soft rot
was observed periodically in the markets of Kollam, Emakulam and Kozhikkode
during the pre - monsoon period. This disease was found frequently in tubers heaped
in store houses where humidity was high. Fusarium rot was very severe during
monsoon months in the markets of Pathanamthitta, Emakulam and Kozhikkode. The
tubers rotted very quickly and affected the fresh tubers also.
Corm rot due to Sclrrotium rolfiii and Fusarium solani are new reports fiom
Kerala. Rot due to species ot'Fusurium are recorded earlier from India and abroad.
C. 7. ELEPHANT FOOT YAM (Amorphophallus campanulatus Bl.)
Three fungal diseases were noticed during the study in elephant foot yam, viz.
soft rot (Scler-otium rolfi~ii Sacc.). brown rot (Trichurus spiralis Swart.) and
Fusarium rot ( F ac~tminat~tm Ell. & Ev.). Soft rot was found to be very severe and
caused extensive damage during the monsoon months in the markets of
Thiruvananthapuram and E;makulam. This disease was also observed in a few
samples collected and examined from the markets of Kannur. Brown rot was found
frequently in injured or cut pieces of the corm. Fusarium rot was found to be more
severe than brown rot as it caused more damage in samples collected from
Thiruvananthapuram and ldukki markets.
Soft rot caused by Sclrrolium rolfsii is not reported earlier from Kerala.
Brown rot and t:usarium rot ,xe new to Kerala markets.
Page 31
C. 8. GINGER (Zingibrr officinale Rose.)
Five fungal diseases were studied in ginger during the investigation, viz.
dry rot (Fusrrrium .soluni (Mart.) Sacc.), rhizome rot (Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc.),
Penicillium rot ( P . digi~utum Sacc.), cottony watery rot (Pythium aphanidermatum
(Eds.) Fi tz .~ and soft rot (Stuchybotrys kampalensis Hansf.). These diseases were
found to be very serious and caused extensive damage to this crop in the markets of , ,
Kerala. Dry rot was observed in the markets of Thiruvananthapuram, Kottayam and ? , .
Idukki during post - monsoon months. This disease was observed periodically. ' : , .
' , l j
Rhizome rot due to Sclrrorium rolfiii was also a serious disease observed during . '
monsoon months in samples collected from Pathanamthitta and Kozhikkode markets.
Penicillium rot was found to be severe in some samples examined from Kottayam
markets. In Pathanamthitta and Kozhikkode markets this disease was not so severe.
Cottony watery rot was noticed during monsoon in the markets of Kottayam and
Pathanamthitta. This disease was found to be favoured by high humidity. An
uncommon disease, but serious produced by Sfachybotrys kampalensis Hansf. was
found to occur in the markets of ldukki and Kasargod. This disease was observed
periodically in these markets during post - monsoon months. A few samples collected
from Malappuram markets also showed their presence.
Dry rot. rhizome rot and conony watery rot are new reports from Kerala.
Penicillium rot and soft rot are new to Indian markets.
C. 9. POTATO (Solanurn tuberosum L.)
Potato is transported to Kerala markets from different parts of the country. It
is reported to be affected by several major and minor hngal diseases. But in Kerala
markets, the author came across only three fungal diseases, viz, dry rot (Fusarium
solani (Mart.) Sacc. ), waxy rot (Georrichum candidum Link. ex Pers.) and soft rot
(Rhizopus n~gricuns Ehr. ex Fr.). These three diseases caused extensive damage to
this tuber cn)p in the market conditions in Kerala. Dry rot was noticed in the tubers
stored for longer duration in .the markets of Pathanamthitta and Idukki. Waxy rot was
observed during monsoon in Alappuzha, Kozhikkode and Kannur markets. This
disease was found to be more severe than dry rot. Soft rot was prevalent in the
markets of Pathanamthitta and in some samples collected from Alappuzha and
Page 32
Kannur. The injured tubers were found to be easily affected by this disease. Soft rot
was more severe than dry rot.
Several Fusarium specices are reported from Indian markets in potato, but the
infection by E: .solani is a new report. Waxy rot and soft rot are also new reports
from Indian markets.
C. 10. YAM (Dioscorea alata L.)
Present investigation revealed only two fungal diseases in the Kerala markets,
viz. soft rot (fi'usariurn solani (Mart.) Sacc.) and brown rot (Rhizocfonia bataticola
(Taub.) Butl.). These two diseases were observed periodically in the Kerala markets
which caused serious damage to this tuber crop. Soft rot was observed during
post - monsoon months in the markets of Thiruvananthapuram and Emakulam. This
disease was also observed in a few samples collected from Kozhikkode markets.
Brown soft rot was prevalent in the markets of Alappuzha, Emakulam and Kottayarn
during pre - monsoon months. This disease was found to be more severe than soft rot
and periodically observed in the markets of Alappuzha and Emakulam, but not so
severe in the markets of Koltayan~.
In this part 31 post harvest fungal diseases were studied in detail. Out of these
12 diseases were found to be favoured by injury (Fusarium rot of beet root, sour rot &
brown rot of carrot, black mould rot of sweet potato, Scytalidium rot and waxy rot of
cassava, soft rot, brown rot and waxy rot of country potato, soft rot and brown rot of
elephant foot yam, sofi rot of potato). Three diseases were favoured by high relative
humidity (Black mould rot of sweet potato and cassava, soft rot of elephant ear). All
the 31 diseases discussed here are new reports from Kerala markets, 15 are new to
Indian markets. Though pathological studies of these crops were made in these crops,
an intensive study of the post harvest fungal disease of these tubers were not made in
the Kerala markets.
Page 33
REPORTS FROM KERALA NEW TO INDIA
C - TUBEROI!S VEGETABLES Pathogen P S'.
No.
1
2
3
5
6
7
8
Fu.siirium acuminalum Ell. & Ev.
Rhizocloniu hatuticolu (Taub.) Butl.
I.'UW&WI c q p m n (Schl ex Fr.)en. S& et Ham
Geotrichum candidum Link. ex Pers.
Alternuria uliernalu (Fr.) Keissl.
Rhizopus nigricuns Ehr. ex Fr.
Host
BEET KO( 11.
CAKKOI
CASSAVA
COIJN'I'KI' - POTATO
ELEPHAN'T- EAWlARO
ELEPHANf- FOOl YAM
GINGER
Asprrgillus niger V. Tieyh.
Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
Scy/alidium lignicola Pesante
Geolrichum candidum Link. ex Pers.
Disease
f'usarium rot
Brown soft rot
Soft rot
Sour rot
Black rot
13rown rot
Black mould rot
Brown rot
Scytalidium rot
Waxy rot
Soft rot
Brown rot
Waxy rot
Soft rot
Fusariurn rot
/ ~ ~ ( J M ' I I rfJ/
I~usariurn rot
Penicillium rot
Soft rot
Fzrsarium monilifbrme Scheld.
Rhimpus nigrieuns Ehr. ex Fr.
Geotrichum candidum Link. ex. Pers. I Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc.
Fusurium solani (Mart.) Sacc
Trichurus spiralis Swart.
Fusuriirm ~cz~rninurum Ell. & Ev.
Petzicillium digitaturn Sacc.
Sruchyholrys kumpu1en.si.s Hansf.
Page 34
Host
'OTKl'( )
Disease
Dry rot
Waxy rot
Soft rot
Soti ~ .ot
I3rown soft rot
Pathogen
Fzrsc~rium soluni (Mart.) Sacc.
Geolrichum candidum Link. ex Pers.
Rhizopus nigrictms Ehr. ex Fr.
Fustrrium soluni (Mart.) Sacc.
Rhizoctonia ba/aticola (Taub.) Butl.
Page 35
PART - D
POST HARVEST FUNGAL DISEASES
OF UNDER UTILIZED FRUITS
These fruits are les:s known and under exploited, though they contain
valuable minerals. vitamins, alkaloids etc. Some of them may act as carriers of certain
diseases. Thls part is included in the study so as to give an awareness in the fungal
pathology of these fruits. The fruits studied were black plum (Jambolana), carambola,
cashew apple, Cqylon olive (Valiya kara), egg fruit, hog plum, nut rneg, passion fruit,
phyllanthus, pot tamarind, rose apple, tamarind and West Indian cherry. These fruits
are not marketed in the state m d hence are collected from various regions to study
their post harvest deter~oration!r.
D. 1. BLACK PLUM IJAMBOLANA (Eugenia jambolana Lamk.)
Two fungal diseases were studied, viz. black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V.
Tiegh.) and Penicillium rot (1'. digitarum Sacc.). Black mould rot was found to be
very serious during pre - monsoon months in fruits collected from Pathanamthitta and
Emakulam. Penicillium rot was observed in a few samples brought from Kozhikkode
and was found to be not severe as black mould rot. The injured fruits were found to
be more susceptible to this disease.
These diseases are recorded for the first time from India.
D. 2. CARAMBOLA (Averrhoa carambola L.) & (A. bilimbi L.)
A. carumholu L. fruits were affected by waxy rot (Geobichum candidum
Linkex Pers.). This disease was found to be a very serious disease of A. carambola
L. during monsoon This disease was noticed periodically in Thiruvananthapuram and
Emakulam. Soft rot (Fusurium equiseli (Corda) Sacc. and brown rot (Rhizopus
Page 36
nigricans Ehr, ex Fr.) were noticed in A. bilimbi during monsoon. Soft rot was
frequently observed in Thiruvananthapuram and Malappuram, more severe than
brown rot. Brown rot was prevalent in Thiruvananthapuram. Both A. carambola and
A. bilimhi were found to be affected by black mould rot in Thiruvananthapuram,
Emakulam and Kozhikkode. This disease was found to be the most serious of other
diseases. This disease was also observed during the monsoon.
Wax) rut, soA rot, brown rot and black mould rot of carambola are new
reports from India
D. 3. CASHEW APPLE (Anacardiutn occidentale L.)
Though cashew nut i:s popular and consumed as 'table nuts', cashew apple is
under utilized rn Kerala and many parts of India. Two fungal diseases, viz. black
mould rot (Aspergi1lu.s niger V. Tiegh.) and brown rot (Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex
Fr.) were noticed in this fruit. Black mould rot was found to be a very serious disease
of cashew appie during FebruaryiMarch in 'rhiruvananthapuram, Emakulam and
Kannur. Injured fruits were found to be susceptible to brown rot.
Black mould rot and brown rot are new to Kerala.
D. 4. CEYLON OLIVE 1 VALlYA KARA (Elaeocarpus serrafus W . & A.)
Fungal diseases studied in this fruit were black mould rot (Aspergillus niger
V. Tiegh.) and brown rot (Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.). Black mould rot was
observed periodically in Kollam and Palakkad. The injured fruits were easily affected
by this disease. Brown rot was noticed in some samples collected from Emakulam.
This disease was frequently observed in over - ripe fruits.
Though this plant is reported to be affected by some pre - harvest disease
causing fungi like Aslerostomellu indicu Rao & Anahousur, Cladosporium sp.,
Cbtacaumu elirrocurpi Ramakr. & Ramakr. and Phyllachora ugharkarii, fruit rot
diseases such a!; black mould rot and brown rot are new report from India.
D. 5. EGG FRUIT (Lucumo nervosa L.)
Black mould rot (Aspergillus nigrr V. Tiegh.) and Penicillium rot
(P, digitatum Sacc.) are the two diseases studied. Black mould rot was found to be
Page 37
severe during prc - monsoon months in Ernakulam and Kollam. Penicillium rot was
observed in some samples brought from Thimvananthapuram and Malappuram
during the same period
Egg fruit is comparatively free from disease and no disease was reported
earlier and hence black mould rot and Penicillium rot are new reports to India.
D. 6. HOG PLUM (Spondiaspinnafa (L. f.) Kurz.)
Two tungal diseases were observed in hog plum - black mould rot
(Aspergillus nigrr V:liegh.) and soft rot (Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.). Black
mould rot was hund to be :serious when the humidity was high. It was observed
in the samples collected from Alappuzha and Kozhikkode during post - monsoon
months. Soft rot was noticed in a few samples brought from Alappuzha. This disease
was found to be not so serious as black mould rot.
Though this fiuit is affected by species of Aspergillus including A. niger as
reported from other parts of India, this is a new repot from Kerala. Soft rot is not
reported from Indian markets.
D. 7. NUTMEG (Myristica fragrans Houtt.)
Durlng the survey, diseases such as charcoal rot (Rhizoctonia bataticola
(Taub.) Butl.).. black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.) and black rot
(Thielaviop.psis parudoxu (de Seynes) Hoehn.) were studied in nutmeg. These diseases
affected not only the pericarp but also the mace and seed in advanced stage. Charcoal
rot was found to be prevalent during pre - monsoon, observed in the samples brought
from Kollam and Ernakulam. It was also noticed in a few samples collected from
Wyanad. Hlack n~ould rot was found to be very serious in Idukki and Emakularn,
observed peri~~dically and caused extensive damage. Black mould rot was noticed in
samples collected from Kollam, Emakulam and Wyanad during the monsoon caused
severe damage to this fruit after harvest.
Black rot reported earlier from Kerala by Rao and Varghese (1976), is noticed
during the pr.esent survey in Kerala. Other diseases such as charcoal rot and black
mould rot are new to Kerala markets.
Page 38
D. 8. PASSION FRUIT (Passflora edulis Sims.)
Passion tiuit was found to be affected by soft rot (Fusarium oxysporum (Schl.
ex Fr.) em. Snyd. et Hans.), black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.) and
brown rot (Botryodiplodic~ ttzeobrornur Sacc.). Soft rot was very severe in the fruits
examined from 'fhiruvananthapuram and Kozhikkode. It was also noticed in a few
samples collected from Idukki. Black mould rot was observed in some samples
brought from Alappuzha and .Malappuram. This disease was not so severe as soft rot,
observed dur~ng monsoon. Brown rot was noticed in injured fruits collected from
Alappuzha and Kozhikkode dming pre - monsoon months.
Among these diseases soft rot, and black mould rot are reported earlier from
Karnataka. and it is a new report from Kerala. Brown rot is a new report from India.
D. 9. PHYLLANTHUS (Phyllanthus acidus Skeel.)
These fruits were affected by two fungal diseases, viz. Black mould rot
(Aspergillus niger. V. Tiegh.) and Fusarium rot ( F . roseum Link.). The injured fruits
were found to be susceptible to black mould rot. This disease was observed during
the monsoon months in some samples collected from Kollam, Emakulam and
Kozhikkode. Fusarium rot was not so severe as black mould rot and observed in a
few samples examined from Alappuzha and Thrissur during monsoon.
Though leaf spot due to Colletotrichum sp. and Glomerelluphyllanthi Pai are
reported from Phyllanthus. no fruit rot disease is reported. Black mould rot and
Fusarium rot are the fungal diseases of this fruit reported for the first time from India.
D. 10. POT TAMAFUND (Garcinia gambogea Desr.)
Penicillium rot (P digilutum Sacc.) and black mould rot (Aspergillus niger
V. Tiegh.) were the fungal diseases noticed during the monsoon. Black mould rot was
found to be more severe than Penicillium rot. Black mould rot was observed in
samples collected from Emakulam, Palakkad and Kasargod. Penicillium rot was
noticed in a few samples broughi from Kollam.
A few fungi causing diseases of leaves are reported earlier from this h i t
plant. Black mould rot and Penicillium rot are new to Indian markets.
Page 39
D. 11. ROSE APPLE (Eugenia javanica L.)
Fungal diseases observed and studied in rose apple were black mould rot
(Aspergillus n i p r V . Tiegh.). Penicillium rot (P, digitatum Sacc.) and Trichoderma
rot (l: 11iridc Pers. ex Fr.). Black mould rot was found to be very severe and observed
in samples collected from I'athanamthitta, Thrissur and Kozhikkode. The injured
fruits were found to be more susceptible to this disease. Penicillium rot was observed
in a few samples brought tiom Idukki and Wyanad and not so severe as black mould
rot. A unique type of rot due to Trirhoderma viride was noticed in some samples
examined from idukki.
Though black mould rot is reported by Manobarachary and Rama Rao 'from '11 ,
A.P., this disease is a new report from Kerala. Penicillium rot due to P. expansum is
also reported from A.P.. but P, digitalum is a new report from Kerala. Trichodenna
rot is not reported from anywhere in India.
D. 12. TAMARIND (Tamarindus indica L.)
Fusarium rot (b: equiseti (Corda) Sacc.) and black mould rot (Aspergillus
niger V. f ~ e g h . ) were observed in tamarind. Both these diseases caused severe
damage to this fruit. Fusariwm rot was observed during post - monsoon months in
Thiruvananthapuram. Kottayam and Kannur, whereas black mould rot was observed
during the pre -. monsoon months in Alappuzha and Idukki.
Black mould rot and Fusarium rot are new to Kerala.
D. 13. WEST INDIAN CHERRY (Carissa carandas L.)
This fruit was found to be affected by fungal diseases, viz, anthracnose
(Pes/alotiop.si.~ ~jers~c.ol~r (Speg.) Stey.). black mould rot (Aspergillus niger V.
Tiegh.) and dry rot (Fzt.surlum acuminatum Ell. & Ev.). Anthracnose was observed
during monsoon in samples brought from Patbanamthitta, Emakulam and
Malappuram. Black mould rot was found to be a serious disease of West Indian
cheny in Idukki and Wyanad. It was also observed in some samples collected from
Kannur. Fruits collected from Pathanamthitta and Wyanad were affected by dry rot
during monsoon. This disease was found to be not so severe as anthracnose and black
mould rot.
Page 40
Anthracnose and black mould rot are recorded from other parts of India, but
are new reports from Kerala. Dry rot is a new report from India.
Out of the thirty two fungal diseases observed and studied in under utilized
fruits, twenty six diseases were fbund to be serious and caused extensive damage in
this part of the country. Seven diseases were found to affect the injured fruits more
easily than the uninjured fruits. In Ceylon olive the unripe fruits were not easily
affected by brown rot. Humidity was fbund to favour diseases such as black mould
rot. As these fruits are not investigated earlier for post harvest diseases in India the
present study forms new additions to Indian Mycology and Plant Pathology.
Page 41
REPORTS FROM KERALA NEW TO INDIA D - UNDER UTILIZED FRUITS
SI. No.
1
2
4
5
8
9
10
Host
BLACK I'LLIM
CARAMBOLA
CEYLON -
OLIVE
EGG FKIJI'I'
PASSION ..
FRUl'f
P ~ ~ I U S
POTTAMARIND
Disease
Black mould rot
Penicillium rot
Waxy rot
Soft rot
Brown rot
Black mould rot
Black mould rot
Brown rot
Black mould rot
Penicillium rot
Brown rot
Black mould rot
E'usariurn rot
Penicillium rot
Black mould rot
Pathogen
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
Penicillium digitarum Sacc.
Geoirichum candidum Link. ex Pers.
Fusarium equiseti (Corda) Sacc.
Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
Penicillium digitatum Sacc.
Botryodiplodiu theobromae Sacc.
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
Fusarium roseum Link.
Penicillium digituium Sacc.
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
Page 42
NEW REPORTS FROM KERALA
Pathogen
AspergiNus niger V. Tiegh.
Rhizopus nigricans Ehr. ex Fr.
Rhizoctonia bataticola (Taub.) Butl.
AspergiNus niger V. Tiegh.
Thielaviopsis paradoxa (de Seynes) Hoehn.
F& ~ ( S c h l s r F r . ) a n . S n y d . t f Hami
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
PeniciNium digitatum Sacc.
Fusarium equiseti (Corda) Sacc.
Aspergillus niger V. Tiegh.
D - SI. Nn.
1
2
3
4
5
UNDER UTILIZED
Host
CASHt:W- 4PPLE
NUTMEG
PASSION FRUIT
ROSE APPLE
TAMARlhD
FRUITS
Disease
Black mould rot
Brown rot
Charcoal rot
Black mould rot
Soft rot
Black mould rot
Black mould rot
Penicillium rot
Fusariurn rot
Black mould rot