Isolation and Identification of Mycoflora from Fruits and Vegetables in Chitradurga Local Market, Karnataka, India

Aim: This study aimed to isolate and identify the mycoflora associated with fruits and vegetables from local markets in Chitradurga, Karnataka, India, to assess fungal diversity, determine potential post-harvest pathogens, and evaluate their impact on food quality and safety. Study Design: The study will be conducted in various local markets of Chitradurga, Karnataka, India, where fruits and vegetables are commonly sold, and further research work done in the laboratory. Methodology: infected fruits and vegetables were collected from local markets in Chitradurga, surface-sterilized, and inoculated onto Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) for fungal isolation. The isolated fungi were identified based on morphological characteristics and microscopic examination. Results: In this study, 43 fungal pathogens from 7 different genera were isolated from 23 fruit and vegetable samples, collected from the local Chitradurga market. The fungal isolates were identified at the species level based on the morphological characteristics of fungal colonies or hyphae, spore features, and reproductive structures. Aspergillus spp., Rhizopus spp., Mucor spp., Colletotrichum spp., Alternaria spp., Fusarium spp., and Penicillium spp. Were found to be major disease-causing organisms in fruits and vegetables in the local market of Chitradurga. Conclusion: The study revealed diverse mycoflora associated with fruits and vegetables in Chitradurga local markets, identifying potential spoilage and pathogenic fungi. Effective post-harvest management strategies are essential to minimize fungal contamination and ensure food safety.