Work

Chitosan as a Postharvest Alternative for the Control of Phytophthora capsici in Bell Pepper Fruits

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Phytophthora capsici is a phytopathogen that affects postharvest bell peppers, as it causes rotting and decreases their commercial value. This study evaluates the efficacy of chitosan as a biocontrol agent against P. capsici on bell peppers using in vitro and in vivo assays. The antifungal activity of chitosan was evaluated at four concentrations (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 g L−1). Its effect on mycelial growth inhibition, sporangial germination, disease incidence and severity, and fruit weight loss was determined. The results show that concentrations of 1.0 g L−1 or higher completely inhibited P. capsici growth and sporangial germination in vitro and reduced disease incidence and severity to 0% in treated fruit. Furthermore, chitosan treatments preserved the fresh and dry weight of the fruit, which prevented postharvest deterioration. This study demonstrates that chitosan is an effective and environmentally friendly alternative for the management of postharvest diseases in bell peppers. This could reduce consumer dependence on synthetic fungicides and preserve fruit quality.

Source: Sci

DOI: 10.3390/sci7020037

Authors: Juan Antonio Torres-Rodriguez, Juan José Reyes Pérez, Luis Tarquino Llerena Ramos, Leonardo Gonzalo-Matute, Edgar Omar Rueda-Puente, Luis Guillermo Hernandez-Montiel

Institutions: Universidad Técnica Estatal de Quevedo, Universidad de Sonora, Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas del Noroeste S.C.

Language: English

Topic: Postharvest Quality and Shelf Life Management

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,448