Isolation of Aspergillus niger from Deteriorating Sweet Oranges (Citrus Sinensis) and their Effect on Fresh Oranges

Abstract

Sweet oranges (Citrus sinensis) are the most well-known fruit in the citrus family. It is a good source of vitamin C, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and pectins. Although, fruits are now stored well but concerns for spoilage of fruits particularly due to fungal diseases still present. Fungi can grow on a variety of substrates, and hence responsible for various diseases in humans and are quite harmful to crops and fruits as well. The present study was conducted for isolation, identification and characterization of fungi associated with spoilage of orange fruit (Citrus sinensis). The samples of Citrus sinensis were collected from fruit markets located near Sanda, Lahore. Pure cultures of Aspergillus niger were obtained, after colonial and morphological (shape, structure, color) characterization of the isolates. The isolated fungal strain (Aspergillus niger) was applied on the skin of fresh Citrus sinensis and pathogenicity test was carried out. It was noticed the isolated strain was pathogen and cause disease in fresh specimens of sweet oranges.