African Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 2 (3), pp. 56-59, March 2003

ISSN 1684-5315  © 2003 Academic Journals  

Biodeterioration of the African star apple (Chrysophylum albidum) in storage and the effect on its food value

N. A.  Amusa*, O.A. Ashaye and M. O. Oladapo

Institute of Agricultural Research and Training Obafemi Awolowo University. Moor Plantation, PMB 5029 Ibadan. Nigeria.

*Corresponding author; E-mail: drart@infoweb.abs.net

The biodeterioration of the African star apple fruits in storage was investigated at Ibadan, southwestern Nigeria. Eight fungal isolates were found associated with the deteriorating fruits. The fungi are Botryodiplodia theobromae, Rhizopus stolonifer, Aspergillus niger,  A. tamarii,  A. flavus, Fusarium spp, Penicilium spp and Trichoderma spp. All the fungal isolates were pathogenic on the star apple fruits with the exception of Trichoderma spp. The African star apple fruits stored for up to 5 days were associated with severe fungal infections and had significantly reduced crude protein, crude fat and moisture content while dry matter, potassium, calcium and sodium increased compared to the freshly harvested fruits.

Key words: Chrysophilum albidum, biodeterioration, fungal pathogens, storage.