Isolation and Identification of Fungi Associated with Spoilage of Post-Harvest Tomato Fruits (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

Abstract

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a widely cultivated and nutritionally important fruit crop that is prone to rapid deterioration after harvesting due to fungal invasion. This study investigated the fungi associated with post-harvest spoilage of tomatoes sold in selected markets. Spoiled tomato samples were collected aseptically and analyzed using standard microbiological techniques. Fungal isolates were identified based on cultural and microscopic characteristics. The predominant fungi identified were Aspergillus niger, Rhizopus stolonifer, Penicillium spp. and Fusarium spp. The frequency of occurrence revealed A. niger as the most dominant species across all samples. The presence of these fungi, which are capable of producing toxins and enzymes that degrade cell walls, suggests poor handling and storage conditions as key contributors to spoilage. Improved sanitation, adequate packaging, and controlled storage environments are therefore recommended to minimize fungal contamination and post-harvest losses.