POSTHARVEST FUNGAL DISEASES OF AFRICAN PEAR (Dacryodes edulis) FRUITS SOLD IN PORT HARCOURT, RIVERS STATE

ABSTRACT: The survey of fungal pathogens associated with African pear (Dacryodes edulis) fruits collected from selected markets located in Port Harcourt, Rivers State was carried out. Fungi associated with the decayed pear fruits include Aspergillus niger, Rhizopus stolonifera and Botryodiplodia theobromae in varying frequencies. Various preservation treatments were used to determine their ability in prolonging the shelf life of the fruits ranging from dipping in 5% sodium chloride (NaCl), 5% sodium hypochlorite (NaClO), Wood ash slurry, Dry Wood ash, refrigeration and the control ( untreated). The most effective preservative method was refrigeration as it inhibited the initiation of rot more than other methods, followed by salt treatment and dry wood-ash. The other treatments were not effective in prolonging the shelf life of the African pear fruits when compared with control. The use of refrigeration, sodium chloride, and dry wood ash treatment is therefore recommended for prolonging the shelf life of African pear fruits in storage.