Studies on the effect of gamma radiation (from Cobalt 60 source) on storage life of white yam (Dioscorea rotundata var. efon) infected with Scutellonema bradys

Abstract

SUMMARYStudies on the effect of gamma irradiation on yam tubers infected with Scutellonema bradys showed that dosages between 5 and 15 krad did not eliminate the nematodes completely, but suppressed sprouting and signs of deterioration in the tubers. Dosages between 20 and 30 krad eliminated 70–80 % of the nematode population in yam peels. The appearance and taste of yams treated with between 7·5 and 15 krad were generally acceptable to a panel of tasters.