CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of the Study

Corn (Zea mays L.), a globally important cereal crop, plays a significant role
in the food systems and economy of many developing countries, including Nigeria.
It serves as a major dietary staple, livestock feed, and raw material for industrial
products. In Adamawa State, particularly in Mubi, corn is cultivated widely and
marketed in large quantities, making it a vital component of food security and
income generation for rural households (Bankole & Adebanjo, 2003).

Despite its importance, corn is highly susceptible to post-harvest spoilage,

especially under suboptimal storage and handling conditions common in local
markets. One of the primary contributors to corn spoilage is fungal contamination.
Fungi are ubiquitous microorganisms that can colonize crops both pre- and post-
harvest, leading to discoloration, decay, and the production of harmful secondary
metabolites known as mycotoxins (Pitt & Hocking, 2009). These toxins,
particularly aflatoxins and fumonisins, are carcinogenic, immunosuppressive, and
hepatotoxic, posing serious health risks to humans and animals alike (WHO,
2018).

In many rural and semi-urban markets in Nigeria, including Mubi Market,

conditions such as high humidity, warm temperatures, and inadequate storage
infrastructure create a conducive environment for fungal proliferation. Vendors
often store corn in open sacks or piles, sometimes under direct sunlight or in poorly
ventilated stalls, further exacerbating he risk of fungal infection. These fungi,
including species of Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Penicillium, are not only

1
responsible for physical deterioration but also contaminate corn with toxic
compounds, making them unsafe for consumption (Samson et al., 2007).

The implications of such contamination are far-reaching. From a public health

standpoint, regular exposure to mycotoxins through contaminated corn has been
linked to liver cancer, stunted growth in children, reduced immunity, and in
extreme cases, death. Economically, fungal spoilage reduces the market value of
corn, leading to significant financial losses for farmers and traders (Okeke et al.,
2014). It also undermines food security by reducing the quantity and quality of
edible grain available to the population.

Although various studies have documented the presence of fungi and

mycotoxins in corn across different regions in Nigeria, there remains a lack of
localized data specific to Mubi Market in Adamawa State. The types, prevalence,
and frequency of spoilage fungi in this region are not well documented, making it
difficult to develop targeted interventions. Moreover, there is limited awareness
among local stakeholders—including farmers, vendors, and consumers—about the
risks associated with moldy corn and the importance of proper postharvest
handling practices (Bankole & Adebanjo, 2003).

This study is therefore designed to fill this knowledge gap by isolating and
identifying the fungi responsible for corn spoilage in Mubi Market. Through
microbiological and microscopic techniques, the study aims to generate empirical
data that will inform food safety strategies, public health policies, and agricultural
extension services in the region. The findings will also provide a scientific basis
for raising awareness and educating stakeholders on the dangers of fungal
contamination and the benefits of improved storage practices.

1.2 Problem Statement

2
 Corn (Zea mays L.) is a staple food and a major source of income for farmers
and traders in Nigeria, especially in Adamawa State. Mubi Market, located in the
northeastern region of the state, is one of the largest agricultural markets where
corn is sold in large quantities. However, corn in this market is often exposed to
poor handling and storage practices that make it vulnerable to spoilage. One of the
major causes of this spoilage is fungal contamination, which not only leads to
significant postharvest losses but also poses serious health risks due to the
production of harmful secondary metabolites known as mycotoxins (Bankole &
Adebanjo, 2003; WHO, 2018).

Fungi such as Aspergillus, Fusarium, and Penicillium species are commonly

associated with corn spoilage and are known to produce mycotoxins like aflatoxins
and sins (Pitt & Hocking, 2009). These toxins have been linked to liver cancer,
immune suppression, stunted growth in children, and even death in severe cases
(WHO, 2018). Despite the visible signs of mold on corn in Mubi Market, there is
limited data on the specific fungi responsible for this contamination. Without
accurate identification and documentation of the fungal species involved, efforts to
mitigate the problem remain ineffective (Samson et al., 2007).

Additionally, most local farmers and vendors are unaware of the risks
associated with fungal spoilage and continue to sell moldy corn for consumption
and animal feed. This lack of awareness, combined with the absence of effective
regulatory measures, contributes to the continued circulation of contaminated corn
in the food supply chain.

This study seeks to address this gap by isolating and identifying the fungi
associated with spoiled corn in Mubi Market. The findings will provide valuable
insight into the extent of fungal contamination and serve as a basis for

3
implementing appropriate intervention strategies to ensure food safety and public
health.

1.3 Aims and Objectives of the Study

1.3.1 Aim of the Study:

The primary aim of this project is to isolate and identify the fungal species
associated with the spoilage of corn sold in Mubi Market, Adamawa State, with the
broader goal of enhancing food safety and reducing public health risks associated
with fungal contamination and mycotoxin exposure (Bankole & Adebanjo, 2003).

1.3.2 Specific Objectives:

1. To isolate and identify fungi from the spoiled corn grains samples using
standard microbiological techniques (Pitt & Hocking, 2009).

2. Incidence and severity of Fungi Associated with the spoilage of corn sold in
Mubi main market.

1.4 Significance of the Study

The importance of this study on the Isolation and Identification of Fungi

Associated with Spoilage Corn grains Sold in Mubi Market, Adamawa State lies in
its potential to address both public health and agricultural challenges in the region.
Corn (Zea mays L.) is a vital food crop in Nigeria, serving as a dietary staple and
economic commodity. However, fungal contamination, particularly in markets like
Mubi, threatens food safety, human health, and the livelihoods of farmers and
traders (Bankole & Adebanjo, 2003).

One of the critical significances of this study is its contribution to food safety.
Fungal species such as Aspergillus flavus, Fusarium spp., and Penicillium spp. are

4
known to produce harmful mycotoxins, including aflatoxins and fumonisins, which
are toxic to humans and animals (Pitt & Hocking, 2009). These toxins are
associated with liver cancer, kidney damage, immunosuppression, and even death
(WHO, 2018). By identifying the specific fungi present in spoiled corn from Mubi
Market, this study provides crucial information that can be used to assess the risk
of mycotoxin contamination and implement strategies to prevent it.

Additionally, this study has implications for public health awareness. In many
parts of Nigeria, including Adamawa State, there is limited awareness among
farmers, traders, and consumers about the dangers of consuming moldy or poorly
stored corn (Okeke et al., 2014). The findings from this study will serve as
evidence to inform public health campaigns and educational programs aimed at
promoting better food handling and consumption practices.

From an economic perspective, the study is significant because fungal

spoilage leads to substantial postharvest losses. These losses affect not only the
income of local farmers and traders but also the availability and affordability of
corn for consumers. By identifying the fungi responsible for spoilage, stakeholders
can implement targeted interventions—such as improved storage technologies, use
of antifungal treatments, and timely drying—to reduce crop losses and enhance
market value (Bankole & Adebanjo, 2003).

Furthermore, the study provides a foundation for policy development and

regulation. The data generated can assist food regulatory agencies and agricultural
extension services in establishing standards for corn quality, setting permissible
limits for mycotoxins, and developing monitoring systems for fungal
contamination in markets (WHO, 2018).

5
1.5 Scope and Limitations of the Study

1.5.1 Scope of the Study

This study focuses specifically on the isolation and identification of fungi

associated with the spoilage of corn (Zea mays L.) sold in Mubi Market, located in
Mubi North Local Government Area of Adamawa State, Nigeria. The scope is
limited to fungal contamination, particularly the identification of spoilage fungi
using standard microbiological and morphological techniques such as culturing on
Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), macroscopic colony observation, and microscopic
examination with lactophenol cotton blue staining (Pitt & Hocking, 2009).

The corn samples used in this study are naturally spoiled kernels, selected
based on visible signs of mold or deterioration, and are sourced exclusively from
retail vendors in Mubi Market. The study does not consider fungal contamination
at the farm level, during transportation, or in processing plants. It is also focused
solely on the qualitative identification of fungi and does not involve the
quantification of fungal load or mycotoxin analysis (e.g., aflatoxins or fumonisins),
although the implications of such toxins are discussed (WHO, 2018).

Additionally, the study is designed to provide practical recommendations for

local farmers, vendors, and food safety regulators based on the fungal species
identified and their known health risks as supported in literature (Pitt & Hocking,
2009; Bankole & Adebanjo, 2013).

1.5.2 Limitations of the Study

Despite its relevance, this study has several notable limitations:

6
1. Geographical Limitation: The study is restricted to a single market (Mubi
Market), which may not reflect the diversity of fungi present in corn sold in other
parts of Adamawa State or Nigeria. As such, generalizing the findings to other
regions should be done cautiously.

2. Lack of Molecular Identificational identification in this study is based purely on

morphological and microscopic features. While effective, this method can
sometimes be ambiguous, especially for closely related fungal species (Samson et
al., 2007). More precise identification using molecular techniques such as DNA
sequencing or PCR was beyond the scope due to resource constraints.

3. No Mycotoxin Quantification: Although the study discusses the risk of

mycotoxins based on fungal species identified, it does not include chemical
analysis to detect or quantify the presence of actual toxins such as aflatoxins or
fumonisins (WHO, 2018). This limits the ability to assess direct health risks from
the contaminated corn samples.

7
 CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Corn (Zea mays L) Production and Economic Importance.

Corn (Zea mays L.) is one of the most significant cereal crops globally and
plays a crucial role in food security, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. In Nigeria,
corn is cultivated across different ecological zones due to its adaptability to a wide
range of climates. It serves as food for humans, feed animals, and raw materials for
agro-industries (FAD, 2012).

Corn is also a member of the poaceae family, is a cereal crop of substantial

agronomic, economic, and nutritional significance worldwide. It is widely grown
in tropical, subtropical, and temperate temperate regions, serving as food for
humans, feed for livestock and raw material for industry. In Nigeria, corn is a
staple food consumed as pap, bread, roasted or boiled kernels, and is also used in
brewing and animal feed production (IITA, 2021).

Corn provides carbohydrates, proteins, and essential vitamins and minerals,

making it indispensable in the diets of many Nigerians. The crop also provides and
contributes substantially to household incomes and national gross domestic product
(GDP), particularly in agrarian states like Adamawa (IITA, 2009).
2.2 Spoilage of Corn during postharvest storage.

Spoilage of corn postharvest is a major constraint to food security and income

generation in Sub-Saharan Africa. Once harvested, corn is exposed to mechanical
damage, microbial colonization, insect infestation, and moisture reabsorption - all

8
of which facilitate spoilage (Tadesse et al., 2022). Improper drying and storage
techniques, such as leaving corn in open environments or using permeable sacks,
result in elevated moisture levels that support fungal proliferation (Kachapulula et
al., 2017). Spoilage often manifests as discoloration, mold growth, foul odor, and
reduction in kernel hardness (Ittel et al., 2000).

Fungal spoilage in stored maize leads to visible signs of deterioration such as

discoloration, kernel shriveling, caking, and the development of musty or sour
odors. These changes are associated with the growth of toxigenic fungi under
conditions of high moisture and temperature, resulting in contamination with
harmful mycotoxins and a significant reduction in market value. In tropical
environments like Mubi, colonization can occur within weeks when relative
humidity exceeds 65% and temperatures are above 28°C (Lacey & Magan, 1988;
USDA, 2016).

2.3 Fungi Associated With Corn Spoilage.

A wide range of fungal species are implicated in corn spoilage.

These include field fungi such as Fusarium spp. and penicillium spp. (Pitt &
Hocking, 2009).

2.3.1 Aspergillus Spp.

The genus Aspergillus particularly A. flavus and A. parasiticus, known for

producing aflatoxins. They thrive in low moisture, warm environ- ments and are
the most frequently isolated spoilage fungi in West Africa (WHO, 2022; Akinfala
et al., 2021).The genus Aspergillus include toxigenic species such as Aspergillus
flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, which are prolific producers of aflatoxins.
These fungi thrive in warm humid environments and are commonly isolated from

9
improperly dried corn. Their spores are airborne facilitating rapid spread in
crowded market environments (Bankole & Adebanjo, 2003)

2.3.2 Fusarium Spp.

Fusarium spp. particularly F. Verticillioides and F. proliferatum are

associated with field infections and are notorious for producing fumonisins. These
mycotoxins are linked to esophageal cancer, neural tube defects, and other serious
health issues (Marasas et al., 2004). Field fungi like F. Verticillioides and F.
proliferatum produce fumonisins and trichothecenes, which are toxic and
potentially carcinogenic (Fapohunda, 2020). These fungi are often isolated from
remains available during storage and continue to produce toxins under favourable
conditions.

2.3.3 Penicillium Spp.

Penicillium spp are more common in temperate regions, Penicillium

chrysogenum and P. verrucosum can contaminate maize in improperly ventilated
or shaded environments. They produce ochratoxin A, which is nephrotoxic and
potentially carcinogenic (Creye et al., 2022).Penicillium species are less common
in tropical environments but may still be isolated from stored in cool and damp
conditions. Some species produce ochratoxins and patulin, which are nephrotoxic
and mutagenic (Samson et al., 2007). These fungi are often indicators of long-term
spoilage and poor storage hygiene.

2.3.4 Rhizopus spp

These fast-growing fungi are opportunistic and usually indicate mechanical

damage or advanced spoilage. Rhizopus stolonifer, a common contaminant, causes

10
soft rot and accelerates microbial succession on corn (Pitt and Hocking
2009).Rhizopus species produce cottony white to gray mycelia and black
sporangia, and their presence is often indicative of poor post-harvest hygiene and
mechanical injury during handling or transport (Samson et al., 2020).

2.4 Mycotoxins and Public health Concerns.

Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by fungi that are toxic to

humans and animals even at low concentrations. Ingestion of contaminated corn
has been associated with acute and chronic health conditions. Aflatoxins,
fumonisins, and ochratoxins are the most frequently encountered in corn (Choto,
2018). These toxins can lead to liver and kidney failure, suppressed immunity, and
various cancers. Chronic exposure has also been associated with growth retardation
in children and impaired nutrient absorption (Wildd & Gang, 2010).

Aflatoxins (B1, B2, G1, G2)

Produced primarily by A. flavus and A. parasiticus, these toxins are potent liver
carcinogens. Chronic exposure can lead to aflatoxicosis, stunted growth in
children, and immune suppression (WHO, 2022)

Fumonisins (B1, B2)

Produced by F. verticillioides, they are associated with neural tube defects and
liver toxicity. In animals, they cause leukoencephalomalacia in horses and
pulmonary edema in swine (Munkvold, 2017).

Ochratoxin A

11
This toxin is produced by Penicillium and Aspergillus ochraceus. It has
nephrotoxic effect and has been linked to Balkan endemic nephropathy and
potential carcinogenicity (Adebayo et al., 2020)

2.5 Factors Contributing to Fungal Growth.

Fungal colonization of corn is largely influenced by environmental and

storage conditions. Critical factors include:

Moisture Content: Grain moisture above 13-14% supports fungal metabolism and
sporulation. Maintaining safe moisture levels below this threshold is essential for
longer-term storage stability (Megan & Added, 2007; Tadesse et al., 2022)

Temperature: Most spoilage fungi, including Aspergillus and Fusarium spp.,

thrive within a temperature range of 25-35°C, which aligns with Mubi’s average
ambient temperature (Helli et al., 2020; Kachapulah et al., 2017)

Relative Humidity (RH): RH levels above 65% promote fungal proliferation,

particularly when grains are stored in poor ventilation or enclosed environments
(Clayay & Megan, 1988; USDA 2016)

Storage Conditions: Traditional practices such as the use of jute sacks, open air
stalls, or untreated soils create favorable microclimates for fungal growth and
mycotoxin production (Ojuir et al., 2021)

Physical Damage: Insect infestations, kernel bruising or shelling related fractures

provide entry points and nutrient-rich surfaces for fungi, accelerating spoilage
(Samson et al., 2020; Fapohunda, 2020).

2.6 Detection and Identification of Fungal Contaminants.

12
 The detection and identification of fungi in contaminated corn typically
involve culturing on aselective media such as potato dextrose agar (PDA),
followed by macroscopic and microscopic examination. Fungal colonies are
characterized based on features like colony color, texture, and growth rate, while
microscopic characteristics such as conidia shape and arrangement aid species
identification (Pitt & Hocking, 2009).

2.7 Control and Prevention of Fungal Contamination.

Preventing fungal spoilage of corn involves a combination of pre- and post-

harvest strategies. These include proper drying to reduce moisture content below
13%, use of hermetic storage systems, timely harvesting, and applications of
biocontrol agents such as non-toxic, atonic strains of Aspergillus flavus (Hell &
Mutegi, 2011).

Pre-Harvest

- Use of Resistant Varieties: Cultivating maize varieties resistant to fungal

pathogens, especially Aspergillus and Fusarium spp., can reduce inbred infection
(Ayalew et al., 2020).

Post-Harvest

- Proper Drying: Corn should be dried to a safe moisture level (<13%) before
storage. Sun drying on clean, raised platforms or mechanical dryers can help
achieve this (Djurić et al., 2021).

13
 - Hygienic Storage: Storing corn in clean, dry, and pest-free environments limits
fungal growth. Hermetic storage (e.g., Purdue Improved Crop Storage [PICS]
bags) has proven effective in preserving grain quality (Bett et al., 2022).

Monitoring and Technological Control.

- Biocontrol Agents: Use of a toxigenic strains of Aspergillus flavus (e.g

Aflasafe) can competitively exclude toxigenic strains, thereby reducing aflatoxin
contamination (Bandyopadhyay et al., 2016).

- Education and Training: Capacity building programs for farmers and traders on
mycotoxin risk and preventive measures have shown significant improvement in
post harvest practice (FAO, 2021).

2.8 Studies Conducted In Nigeria.

Several studies have been Conducted In Nigeria to evaluate fungal contamination

in maize. For instance, Bankole And Adebanjo (2004) documented the presence of
Aspergillus and Fusarium Spp, in corn sample South Eastern state. However, few
studies have focused on northeastern region like Adamawa state, leaving a
significant knowledge gap on the types and prevalence of spoilage Fungi in mubi.

14
 CHAPTER THREE

MATERIALS AND METHODS

3.1 Materials And Equipments

The following materials and equipment were used during the study

3.1.1 Glass ware and Lab Ware

. Petri dishes

. Conical flasks

. Measuring cylinder

. Beaker

. Test tube

. Inoculating loops

.Glass slides and Cover slips

. Whatman filter paper

15
 . Aluminium foil

. Masking tape

. Forceps

. Cotton wool

3.1.2 Reagent and chemicals

. Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA)

. 70% Ethanol or methylated spirit

. Distilled water

3.1.3 Equipment

. Autoclave or Pressure pot

. Incubator

. Microscope

. Bunsen burner

. Electrical balance.

3.2 Method

3.2.1 Study Area

The Study was conducted in federal polytechnic mubi, located in Mubi North
local Government Area of Adamawa state, Nigeria. Mubi is a prominent
commercial hub in the northeastern part of the country and lies within the sudan
savannah ecological zone. It experiences as tropical climate characterized by a

16
distinct dry and rainy season with average annual temperature ranging between
21°c and 34°c and relative humidity of 21% - 80% depending on the season
(NIMET, 2018).

Mubi main market, situated in mubi North LGA, Adamawa state, lies within the
tropical sudanian savannah zone and seme as a key agricultural hub. The area
receives between 800 and 1,080mm of average annual rainfall and experiences
mean temperatures of 24 - 34°c - conditions that support both crop cultivation and
Fungal growth in stored grains ( Adebayo et al, 2012j Nomad season climate Data,
2024j sudanian savanna characteristics, 2004).

3.2.2 Sample Collection

A handful of corn sample were randomly collected from different retails

vendor within the Mubi main market, sampling was done aspectially by
handpicking visibly spoiled kernels showing signs of discoloration, mold growth,
caking, toul odour or soft rot. Each sample weighing approximately 200 grams,
was placed in sterile polyethene bags, labeled according to the sampling site and
transported to the biology laboratory of Department of science and technology,
Federal polytechnic Mubi, for further analysis.

3.2.3 Culture Media Preparation

Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) was used as the growth medium for fungal
isolation. PDA was prepared by dissolving 9.8g of the powdered medium in 250
ml of distilled water. The medium was boiled using pressure pot for about 30-40
minutes to ensure sterility. After cooling to about 450C, the medium was poured
aseptically into sterile petri dish and allowed to solidify.

3.3 Isolation of Fungi.

17
 The Isolation of fungal was carried out using the direct plating method from
each corn sample, 2-3 grains were surface - sterilized using o.1 ml of methylated
spirit and 9.5 ml of distilled for 1minutes and rinsed thice in sterile distilled water.
The grains were blot - dried with sterile filter paper and then plated onto PDA in
triplicates (3 grains per plate). The plates were incubated at room temperature
(28oc +_ 2oc) for 5 - 7 days. Emerging fungal colonies were sub-cultured onto
fresh PDA plate to obtain pure cultures

Media preparation: potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) was prepared by dissolving 9.8g
of PDA in 25ml of distilled water and boiled using pressure pot for 30-40 minutes.
Antibiotic ( chloramphebical, 100 mg/L) was added, post - sterilization to suppress
bacterial interference

Surface sterilization: corn kernels were surface disinfected with 0.1ml of

methylated spirit and 9.5ml of distilled water and rinsed thrice with sterile distilled
water to remove residual chlorine.

Plating Method: Three kernels from each sample were plated onto PDA in petri
dishes ( in triplicates) and incubated at 28 +- 20C for 5 - 7 days. Fungal out
growths were sub-cultured to obtain pure Isolates

3.4 Identification of FungaI:

Identification of isolated fungi was done Based on both microscopic and

microscopic characteristics, as outlined by pitt & Hocking ( 2009 ) and Samson et
al., ( 2007 )

3.4.1 Microscopic Examination

The cultural characteristics of fungal colonies such as color texture,

pigmentation, and growth rate were observed and recorded

18
3.4.2 Macroscopic Examination

A small portion of each Fungal colony was placed on a clean glass slide,
stained with lactophenol cotton blue, and covered with a cover slip. The slides
were examined under compound light microscope at magnification of x10 and x40
(x400). Fungi were identified based on morphological features such as hyphal
structure, spore type, conidiphore arrangement, and shape of conidia identification
was done using standard fungal identification manual and keys (Pitt & Hocking
2009; Samson et al., 2007)

3.5 Determination of Fungal Incidence

Fungal incidence was calculated Based on the number of grains in tected by a

particular fungal species relative to the total number of grains plated. It was
expressed as a percentage using the formula

Fungal Incidence (%) = Number of grains infected by each fungus ✖ 100

Total Total number of grains plated

3.6 Data Analysis

The data obtained were subjected to simple descriptive statistics such as

frequency counts and percentages . Result were presented in tabula for and
graphical form where appropriate.

19
 CHAPTER FOUR

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1 Results:

The following fungi were isolated, identified and confirmed through

pathogenicity test to be responsible for the spoilage of Corn grains sold in.
Rhizopus stolonifer and Penicillium chrysogenum.

4.1.1 Description of Pathogens

Pure cultur of Rhizopus stolonifer plate I and II (7 days old culture) appeared
to be dark gray to blackish in color.

Pure culture of Penicillium Camemberti plate III (7 days old culture) appeared
to be white in colour.

20
4.2 Table of Incidence and Severity

Table of incidence.

S/N Location Fungi isolated Incidence (%)

1 Kasuwa Buhu Mubi North Rhizopus stolonifer 62.5%

2 Tsuhu Tasha Mubi North Rhizopus stolonifer 54.05%

3 Wurogode Mubi North Penicillium Camemberti 71.43

21
Table of Severity.

S/N Location Total (n) Infected Corn(n) Un-infected Corn (n)

1 Kasuwa Buhu 400 250 150

Mubi North

2 Tsuhu Tasha Mubi 370 200 170

North

3 Wurogode Mubi 350 250 100

North

22
4.3 Discussion:

The study revealed the fungal pathogens associated with the spoilage of corn
grains sold in mubi market (kasuwa Buhu Mubi North, Tsuhu Tasha Mubi North
and wurogode Mubi North) Adamawa state to be Rhizopus stolonifer and
Penicillium Camemberti.

The presence of these Pathogens proved that they are the causal agent
responsible for the deterioration and spoilage of such an economical plant (corn
grains) sold in Mubi Market Adamawa State.

The total two (2) colours of different fungi were isolated from three samples.
The result has shown that two (2) fungal pathogens were isolated and identified in
plate (I &II) in the study, Rhizopus stolonifer( plate I &II) and Penicillium
Camemberti (plate III) were the fungal pathogens responsible for the spoilage of
corn grains sold in mubi market Adamawa state.

23
 CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

5.1 Summary.

Two fungal pathogens were found responsible for the spoilage of corn grains
sold in kasuwa Buhu Mubi North, Tsuhu Tasha Mubi North and wurogode Mubi
North, and were isolated, identified and proved to be the pathogenic in this study
which include Rhizopus stolonifer and Penicillium Camemberti

5.2 Conclusion

It was concluded that the fungal pathogens responsible for the spoilage of
corn grains sold in mubi main market (kasuwa Buhu Mubi North, Tsuhu Tasha
Mubi North and wurogode Mubi North) Adamawa state were isolated, identified
and confirmed to be Rhizopus stolonifer and Penicillium Camemberti.

5.3 Recommendations

Pre-harvest:

1. Use of Resistant Varieties: Cultivating different varieties of maize resistant t

fungal pathogens

24
Post-harvest:

1. Proper Drying: Corn should be dried to a age moisture level (<13%) before
storage. Sun dry on a clean, raised platforms or mechanical dryer can help
achieve this.
2. Hygienic Storage: Storing corn in clean, dry and pest free environments
limit fungal growth Hermetic storage (e.g., Purdue Improved Crop Storage
(PICS) bags) has proven effective in preserving grain quality.
3. Biocontrol Agents: Use natural biocontrol agents like Trichoderma spp. or
Bacillus spp. to inhibit fungal growth and prevent spoilage in corn grains
during post-harvest storage. These microorganisms can be applied as a
biological control measure to reduce fungal contamination and ensure
grain quality.

25
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 APPENDICES

Figure 1: Plate 1; 7 days old Pure culture of Rhizopus stolonifer

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Figure 2: Plate 2; 7 days old Pure culture of Penicillium Camemberti

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