Biological control of Penicillium spp. in Morocco

Post-harvest diseases caused by Penicillium digitatum and Penicillium italicum result in considerable losses of citrus fruit; consequently, improving protection and value-added techniques is essential for greater profitability. One of the objectives to be pursued in order to revitalise the national citrus sector is the reduction of post-harvest losses, which is less costly and easier to achieve within a relatively short timeframe, given that it is easier to increase export volumes by better preserving the quality of the fruit after harvest than by seeking to increase productivity. Chemical control has been the most widely used method to tackle the problem of these fungi to date, despite its harmful effects on humans and the environment. Indeed, the use of plant extracts is a promising alternative that can be applied post-harvest to ensure the fruit is safe and poses no risk to consumer health. During this in vitro and in vivo trial, we assessed the antifungal effect of Artemisia herba alba essential oil on Penicillium.

Post-harvest diseases caused by Penicillium digitatum and Penicillium italicum result in considerable losses of citrus fruit; consequently, improving protection and value-added techniques is essential for greater profitability. One of the objectives to be pursued in order to revitalise the national citrus sector is the reduction of post-harvest losses, which is less costly and easier to achieve within a relatively short timeframe, given that it is easier to increase export volumes by better preserving the quality of the fruit after harvest than by seeking to increase productivity. Chemical control has been the most widely used method to tackle the problem of these fungi to date, despite its harmful effects on humans and the environment. Indeed, the use of plant extracts is a promising alternative that can be applied post-harvest to ensure the fruit is safe and poses no risk to consumer health. During this in vitro and in vivo trial, we assessed the antifungal effect of Artemisia herba alba essential oil on Penicillium.