Transit rot

Rhizopus stolonifer

Rhizopus stolonifer:

Rhizopus stolonifer, commonly known as black bread mold, is a filamentous fungus belonging to the class Zygomycetes. It is a ubiquitous saprophyte and can also act as an opportunistic pathogen causing post-harvest decay in various fruits and vegetables. Here's an informative description:

Morphology:

  1. Hyphae: The fungus consists of a network of hyphae, which are the thread-like structures forming the mycelium.
  2. Sporangia: Asexual reproduction occurs through sporangia, which are spherical structures containing spores.
  3. Stolons: Rhizopus stolonifer produces stolons, or runners, that spread across the substrate, aiding in its rapid colonization.

Habitat:

  1. Ubiquitous: Rhizopus stolonifer is commonly found in soil, decaying organic matter, and on a variety of fruits and vegetables.
  2. Post-Harvest Decay: It can cause post-harvest decay in fruits, particularly soft and perishable ones.

Pathogenicity:

  1. Opportunistic Pathogen: In certain conditions, especially when fruits are damaged or overripe, Rhizopus stolonifer can act as an opportunistic pathogen.
  2. Rapid Growth: It can rapidly colonize and cause decay in fruits, leading to economic losses in agricultural settings.

Identification:

  1. Black Sporangia: Identify the black sporangia that develop on the surface of infected fruits. These sporangia contain numerous spores.
  2. Rapid Decay: Presence of rapid decay on fruits, often accompanied by a dark, fuzzy appearance.

Conditions Favoring Growth:

  1. High Moisture: Rhizopus stolonifer thrives in high-moisture conditions.
  2. Damaged Fruit: It often infects fruits through wounds or injuries.

Management:

  1. Proper Handling: Handle fruits carefully during harvesting and post-harvest to minimize injuries.
  2. Storage Conditions: Store fruits in cool and dry conditions to reduce the risk of fungal growth.
  3. Fungicides: In some cases, fungicides may be applied to prevent fungal decay, but proper sanitation and handling practices are crucial.

Note: While Rhizopus stolonifer is commonly associated with post-harvest decay, it's also used in various industrial processes, such as the production of organic acids and enzymes.