Effect of Culture Media and Physical Factors on the Growth and Sporulation ofPenicillium funiculosumof Aonla

Abstract

The fruit rot of aonla caused by Penicillium funiculosum adversely affects the fruit quality, quantity and ultimately reduces the marketable value. Very meager research work has been carried out on fruit rots of aonla. Fruit rot of aonla (P. funiculosum) is a new record from Gujarat and was identified by Division of Mycology and Plant Pathology, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi (ITCC: 7046.08). Evaluation of media (solid & liquid), pH and temperature on the growth and sporulation of P. funiculosum was studied in vitro. Highest radial growth and dry mycelial weight of P. funiculosum was obtained on Potato Dextrose Agar (87.50 mm) and Czapek's broth (304.25 mg) media with an excellent sporulation. Temperature ranging from 25 and 30°C found best for the mycelial growth (90.00 mm) and sporulation of P. funiculosum on PDA. The pH 7 found most suitable for mycelial growth (86.25 mm & 327.25 mg) and sporulation on PDA and Potato Dextrose Broth, respectively.