Aeromycoflora of fruit markets of Baroda, India and associated diseases of certain fruits

Fungal organisms cause diseases in plants, animals, and human beings. They are responsible for deterioration of organic objects. Scientists have found that it is not the occurrence but quantum of inoculum or number of spores per unit area which has a direct effect on development of diseases in fields as well as in markets. An aerobiological survey of three fruit markets of Vadodara, India was undertaken during 2006 to determine various fungal pathogens present in the atmosphere using the petriplate exposure method. Isolations were also done from six fruits available during summer and rainy seasons. The surface washing technique yielded 12 micro fungi from Prunus avium. Direct correlation was observed between percentage rot of fruits and occurrence of fungal spores in different months.