DETECTION OF FUNGI SPECIES INVOLVED IN PARKIA BIOGLOSA SPOILAGE

ABSTRACT This study investigated the fungal species responsible for the post-harvest spoilage of Parkia biglobosa (African locust bean) seeds in Girei Local Government Area, Nigeria. Seeds were collected from three markets, and fungi were isolated and identified using morphological and microscopic characteristics. The results revealed a high incidence of fungal contamination in deteriorated seeds (84.4%) compared to non-deteriorated seeds (15.6%). A total of seventeen fungal species across nine genera were identified. Aspergillus niger was the most dominant species, followed by Fusarium oxysporum, F. solani, and Aspergillus flavus. Other genera included Penicillium, Rhizopus, Mucor, Cladosporium, and Alternaria. Proximate analysis showed that fungal infestation significantly altered the seeds’ nutritional composition. Deteriorated seeds exhibited increased moisture, fat, and ash content but a marked decrease in valuable nutrients like carbohydrates, crude fiber, and protein. The presence of mycotoxin-producing fungi such as A. flavus raises serious public health concerns. The study concludes that improper post-harvest handling and storage conditions facilitate fungal growth, leading to substantial nutritional and economic losses. Recommendations include proper drying of seeds, use of airtight storage containers, maintaining hygienic storage environments, and public awareness campaigns on the health risks of fungal contamination.