Isolation and Identification of Fungal Contaminants Associated with the Spoilage of Groundnut (Arachis Hypogaea) Seeds from Local Markets in Tubah Subdivision

International Journal of Agriculture & Environmental Science

© 2025 by SSRG - IJAES Journal

Volume 12 Issue 6

Year of Publication : 2025

Authors : Teke Ache Neh Acha, Njewa Betrand, Tita Margaret Awah

10.14445/23942568/IJAES-V12I6P101

How to Cite?

Teke Ache Neh Acha, Njewa Betrand, Tita Margaret Awah, "Isolation and Identification of Fungal Contaminants Associated with the Spoilage of Groundnut (Arachis Hypogaea) Seeds from Local Markets in Tubah Subdivision," SSRG International Journal of Agriculture & Environmental Science, vol. 12,  no. 6, pp. 1-9, 2025. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23942568/IJAES-V12I6P101

Abstract:

Groundnuts are consumed worldwide for their nutritional, health, and economic benefits. Fungi remain major contaminants on postharvest groundnuts, resulting in significant economic losses and health risks to humans. The study aimed at isolating and identifying the different fungi associated with contamination and spoilage of groundnuts sold in markets in Tubah Subdivision. Groundnuts were purchased, surface-sterilized in 70% alcohol, rinsed with distilled water, and cultured on Potato Dextrose Agar. Gentamicin was added to suppress bacterial growth. Seeds were inoculated in three replicates for 5 days at a temperature of 25 °C. Isolated fungi were again sub-cultured to obtain pure cultures. Fungal identification was done based on morphological and microscopic features. Results revealed five fungal genera, including Aspergillus, Rhizopus, Mucor, Penicillium, and Fusarium, as prominent in the spoilage of groundnuts. Aspergillus niger had the highest frequency of occurrence (42.1%), followed by Rhizopus stolonifer (23.6%), Mucor sp (15.3%), and Penicillium sp (13.8%). And Fusarium oxysporum (4.9%). The pathogenicity test revealed that the isolated fungus caused spoilage on groundnuts. Poor storage practices by vendors were the main reason for spoilage. Public awareness on storage methods should be encouraged as these contaminants are primary sources of mycotoxins, which are detrimental to human health.

Keywords:

Fungi, Groundnuts, Pathogenicity, Spoilage, Tubah.

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