Abstract

VELAZQUEZ-DEL VALLE, Miguel Gerardo et al. Control strategies of Rhizopus stolonifer Ehrenb. (Ex Fr.) Lind, causal agent of posharvest rots in agricultural products. Rev. mex. fitopatol [online]. 2008, vol.26, n.1, pp.49-55. ISSN 2007-8080.

Rhizopus stolonifer is a versatile phytopathogen fungus which can grow and develop in a wide range of temperature and relative humidity. Its fast growth rate allows it to colonize the surface of agricultural products, causing a disease known as soft rot, which can cause important economic losses. This process is developed by excretion of fungal peptic enzymes that degrade and dissolve the pectin contained in the middle lamella of plant cells. For several years synthetic fungicides have been used to control this microorganism; however, several studies have shown that these compounds have caused resistance of fungal strains and represent a potential risk for the environment and the human health. In the search of natural alternatives for control of posharvest rots, options such as plant extracts, microbial antagonists and chitosan have been evaluated. In those studies, authors have pointed out the need to deepen the knowledge of the active compounds (plant extracts), action mechanisms (antagonist microorganisms), and the antimicrobial potential (chitosan). Future research will contribute to improve the use of better control strategies individually or in combined forms.

Keywords : Antagonist microorganisms; vegetable extracts; chitosan; fungicides.