Author(s): Hassan A Gouda, Amal MI Eraky, Jerome Jeyakumar John Martin, Mohamed AM Hussein and Ahmed Hendy

Abstract: Post-harvest rot disease in tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) is a significant threat to the industry, resulting in notable economic losses. This study identified Acremonium sclerotigenum as the causal agent of post-harvest tomato rot and evaluated eco-friendly management strategies using plant-based extracts. The leaf extracts of Sonchus, Black nightshade, and Mallow were tested for their potential in controlling A. sclerotigenum. In vitro assays revealed that bio-extracts significantly inhibited the mycelial growth of A. sclerotigenum, with Mallow (15% concentration) and Black nightshade (15% concentration) extracts achieving maximum radial growth reduction rates of 91.2% and 90.1%, respectively. In vivo assays further supported these findings, with the highest inhibition (57.1%) observed when tomato fruits were treated with Black nightshade and Mallow extracts (15% concentration).These results highlight the potential of Black nightshade and Mallow extracts as effective, eco-friendly alternatives for managing A. sclerotigenum-induced post-harvest rot in tomatoes, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices.

Pages: 116-121 | Views: 17 | Downloads: 10

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