ISOLATION AND IDENTIFICATION OF FUNGI ASSOCIATED WITH POST-HARVEST TOMATO (Solanum lycopercium) SPOILAGE IN KASUWAN GWARI MARKET, YOLA NORTH, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study aimed to isolate and identify fungi associated with spoiled post-harvest tomato fruits in Kasuwan Gwari market, Yola. Spoiled tomato fruit samples were collected from different retail markets and analyzed using standard microbiological techniques. A total of twenty (20) samples were surface-sterilized, plated on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), and incubated for fungal growth. Pure cultures were subsequently obtained and identified based on cultural, morphological, and microscopic characteristics. The study revealed that Aspergillus niger, Fusarium oxysporum, and Rhizopus stolonifer were the predominant fungi associated with spoilage. The presence of these fungi indicates poor handling, high moisture content, and inadequate storage conditions, which accelerate the loss of quality and shelf life. The findings underscore the need for improved post-harvest practices, proper sanitation during transportation and marketing, and increased awareness of fungal contamination risks. Overall, this study provides valuable insight into the fungal pathogens contributing to tomato spoilage and highlights measures necessary to reduce post-harvest losses.