ANTIFUNGAL EXPLOITATION OF ESSENTIAL OILS AGINST Aspergillus niger CAUSING CHERRY FRUIT ROT

Abstract

ABSTRACT
 Cherry is an important fruit being grown throughout world and Pakistan. This research focused on investigating the occurrence of Cherry fruit rot in various locations within the Quetta district of Balochistan. Infected Cherry fruit samples were collected from Joint Road, Double Road New Adda, Azar Ghangi, and Kansi Road. The specimens underwent isolation and morphological identification procedures were carried out at the mycological laboratory of the Department of Plant Pathology, Balochistan Agriculture College, to determine the causal agent (Aspergillus niger). Additionally, the study explored the impact of diverse essential oils on the linear colony growth of Aspergillus niger under controlled in-vitro conditions. Essential oils, such as Rose oil, Neem oil, Coconut oil, and Cinnamon oil, displayed varying inhibitory effects on Aspergillus niger growth. These findings enhance our understanding of interactions between agents and the fungus, paving the way for further fungal growth control research. The study contributes practical insights for managing Aspergillus niger growth, potentially advancing strategies in the field of fungal growth control and management.