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VOL. 8, ISSUE 2 (2026)
Morpho-cultural characterization of major post harvest fungal pathogens causing rot in cucumber
Authors
Vinod Hosamani, S K Jayalakshmi, Yenjerappa S T, Aswathanarayana D S, Ramesh G
Abstract
Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) is an
important vegetable crop, but its post-harvest shelf life is significantly
reduced by fungal pathogens causing fruit rot during storage and transit. The
present study aimed to cultural and morphological characterization of major
post harvest fungal pathogens associated with cucumber rotting using potato
dextrose agar (PDA). Five fungal genera, namely Aspergillus, Fusarium,
Rhizopus, Colletotrichum, and Alternaria, were identified
based on cultural and morphological characteristics. Eight Aspergillus
isolates showed black colonies with globose conidia (3.91–4.31 µm) and high
sporulation. Ten Fusarium isolates produced micro- and macroconidia
(7.1–9.2 × 2.0–2.4 µm and 31.4–44.3 × 3.2–4.3 µm) along with chlamydospores.
Eleven Rhizopus isolates exhibited rapid growth with globose
sporangiospores (5.0–6.9 µm) and characteristic stolons and rhizoids. Two Colletotrichum
isolates produced cylindrical conidia (≈12.3 × 4.4 µm) with acervuli and setae.
One Alternaria isolate showed muriform conidia (37.5 × 8.9 µm).
Considerable variability in colony morphology, pigmentation, and sporulation
indicated high pathogen diversity. These findings provide a basis for
developing effective strategies to manage post-harvest losses in cucumber.
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Pages:35-42
How to cite this article:
Vinod Hosamani, S K Jayalakshmi, Yenjerappa S T, Aswathanarayana D S, Ramesh G "Morpho-cultural characterization of major post harvest fungal pathogens causing rot in cucumber". International Journal of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Vol 8, Issue 2, 2026, Pages 35-42
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