Abstract

HERNANDEZ-MONTIEL, LG; HOLGUIN-PENA, J; LOPEZ-ABURTO, MG  and  TROYO-DIEGUEZ, E. Postharvest control of Geotrichum citri-aurantii on Mexican lemon (Citrus aurantifolia [Christm.] Swingle) with marine and epiphytic yeasts. Universidad y ciencia [online]. 2011, vol.27, n.2, pp.191-198. ISSN 0186-2979.

The antagonistic potential of yeast Debaryomyces hansenii (two strains from marine source DhhBCS05, DhhBCS06 and two epiphytic LL1, LL2) against Geotrichum citri-aurantii on Mexican lemon fruits was evaluated. According to the identification and pathogenicity test, G. citri-aurantii was found to be the causal agent of sour rot disease. LL1 and LL2 epiphytic strains significantly reduced the disease incidence and the area of lesion on inoculated fruits with pathogenic fungi. All yeasts D. hansenii colonized lemon wounds. Results suggest that epiphytic yeasts D. hansenii were highly effective for controlling G. citri-aurantii on Mexican lemon fruits.

Keywords : Biological control; phytopathogenic fungi; Debaryomyces hansenii.