A Biological Control for Postharvest Fruit Rots

Technology Description:

The invention is a nonpathogenic fungi strain that can be used as an effective biological control on fruit, especially citrus. Geotrichum candidum was derived from a parent strain of fungi naturally found in rotten citrus.  The technology is an environmental alternative to petrochemical fungicides such as Thiabendazole (TBZ), used to control green mold in harvested fruit destined for market. The control is effective against postharvest pathogens such as Penicillium digitatum, Geotrichum candidum Penicillium ulaiense and Penicillium italicum.

The new fungi strain can be grown and harvested using conventional mediums over wide temperature and pH ranges.  Fungal spores can be harvested in four to five days.  The spores can be applied by spraying, dipping or brushing.  Fruit can be treated before or after harvest.  The invention is also effective against many postharvest diseases in other fruits such as peaches, nectarines, apples, pears and strawberries.

Reference:

Please refer to Patent Number 5,668,008, "A Virulent Geotrichum candidum for Biological Control of Postharvest Rots of Fruit," which issued September 16, 1997.

Inventors:

Cynthia G. Eayre Water Management Research Parlier, California 93648 (559) 596-2897 / Fax: (559) 596-2851 ceayre@asrr.arsusda.gov

Mani Skaria Texas A&M Citrus Center Weslaco, Texas 78596  (956) 968-2132