FUNGAL POPULATIONS ASSOCIATED TO NETTING TISSUE OF GALIA MELONS AFFECTING QUALITY DURING STORAGE

Area of Science:

• Horticultural science
• Plant pathology
• Food science

Background:

• Galia melons exported from Spain face post-harvest losses due to fungal growth in surface netting.
• Netting areas are natural wounds colonized by fungi like Cladosporium, Fusarium, and Alternaria.
• Fungal growth is exacerbated by water presence, disrupting the natural microbial equilibrium.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of water and humidity in the epiphytic development of Cladosporium on Galia melons.
• To identify optimal storage conditions to prevent fungal rot and maintain fruit quality.
• To provide recommendations for post-harvest handling to minimize losses.

Main Methods:

• Observation of fungal growth (Cladosporium) under varying relative humidity conditions (near 100% and below 98%).
• Assessment of fruit quality deterioration and decay development at different storage temperatures (refrigeration and ambient).
• Evaluation of the impact of water condensation on fungal epiphytic growth and internal rot.

Main Results:

• High relative humidity (around 100%) or condensed water promotes Cladosporium growth in netting areas, causing discoloration.
• Cladosporium growth into the fruit skin, causing brown stains and decay, occurs at 7°C after 32 days.
• Transfer to ambient temperature accelerates aerial mycelium development and exacerbates losses.

Conclusions:

• Water condensation must be avoided on melon surfaces, especially in netting areas, to prevent Cladosporium proliferation.
• Post-harvest washing requires thorough drying before storage to inhibit fungal development.
• Storage at 7°C for over 16 days with relative humidity above 98% should be avoided to prevent Cladosporium rot.