Isolation and characterization of microorganisms involved in the post-harvest loss of Carica papaya (papaya) and Mangifera indica (mango) in Awka, southeastern Nigeria.
Ogbogu C. L., Ojiagu D. K., Anyamene N. C.
Author Affiliation: Department of Applied Microbiology and Brewing, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, P. M. B. 5025, Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria.
International Journal of Agriculture and Biosciences 3 : 225-229
Abstract : Isolation and characterization of microorganisms associated with post-harvest loss of Carica papaya and Mangifera indica fruits sold in the four major markets of Awka metropolis, Anambra State were conducted. Isolation of associated fungi and bacteria from the fruits were carried out on Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) and Nutrient agar respectively. The organisms were isolated and characterized on the basis of their colonial, morphological and biochemical features. A total of six (6) fungi were isolated from papaya viz. Aspergillus sp., Penicillium sp., Rhizopus sp., Candida sp., Geotrichum sp. and Saccharomyces sp; while a total of four (4) fungi were isolated from Mangifera indica viz. Penicillium sp., Aspergillus sp., Rhizopus sp., and Candida sp. Also, a total of six (6) of bacteria were isolated from papaya viz. Staphylococcus sp., Streptococcus sp., Bacillus sp., Pseudomonas sp., Micrococcus sp. and Erwinia sp.; while a total of four bacteria were isolated from Mangifera indica viz. Lactobacillus sp., Micrococcus sp., Streptococcus sp. and Pseudomonas sp. Fungal counts of up to 9.8×105 cfu/g and 3.0×105 cfu/g were recorded in papaya and mango respectively. Also, bacterial counts of up to 3.6×105 cfu/g and 8.0×105 cfu/g were recorded in papaya and mango respectively. Some of the organisms isolated are human pathogens which can cause harm to people upon consumption. Therefore, fruits washing and storage at proper sanitary conditions, and refrigeration are necessary to increase shelf-life and reduce the risks of diseases to human health upon consumption.