Isolation and Identification of Fungi Associated With Rot of Watermelon Fruit in Sokoto Metropolitan, Sokoto State, Nigeria

Watermelon fruit contain high vitamins and minerals. Watermelon is susceptible to many pathogenic microorganisms that results to unpleasant odours and cause foodborne diseases. This study was conducted to isolate and identify fungi that are associated with rot of watermelon fruit in Sokoto metropolitan. The presence of fungal organisms was examined in five different locations within Sokoto metropolitan. Isolated fungus was identified morphologically, microscopically and using molecular standard procedures. Results showed that (3- Aspergillus is one gemus) 4 fungal genera were isolated and Identified. The isolated fungi were Asperqillus flavus, Aspergillus niger. Rhizopus stolonifer and Mucor spp. Fungi isolated from this study are of economical and public health importance. This study was carried out to examine the fungi associated with the rot of watermelon fruit in Sokoto metropolitan. Careful handling of watermelon fruit are recommended to ensure longer shelf-life, prevent spread of rot pathogens and keep fruit in the highest quality before consumption.