THE FUNGI ASSOCIATED WITH THE SPOILAGE OF COCOYAM (COLOCASIA ESCULENTA) IN MUBI, ADAMAWA STATE
Abstract
The study investigates post-harvest spoilage of cocoyam (Colocasia esculenta) in Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria, focusing on fungal pathogens and their impact on the physicochemical and organoleptic properties of cocoyam. Mucor hiemalis and Penicillium citrinum were identified as the primary fungal species associated with soft rot in cocoyam. A series of laboratory procedures, including inoculation and isolation techniques, were employed to study fungal growth and morphology. Pathogenicity tests demonstrated significant rot progression, emphasizing the detrimental effects of these fungi on cocoyam quality. Changes in physicochemical properties such as weight, firmness, color, pH, and sugar content were monitored over nine days, revealing notable biochemical and physiological deterioration. Statistical analyses confirmed the relationship between fungal infection and cocoyam spoilage. Recommendations include improved storage facilities, antifungal treatments, and training for local farmers to mitigate losses and enhance the post-harvest quality of cocoyam.
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