In vitro effect of some fungicides used in cultivation of Capsicum spp. on growth and ochratoxin A production by Aspergillus species

Abstract

The present study aimed to assess the effect of some pre-harvest fungicides commonly used in Capsicum fruit production on growth and ochratoxin A production of three Aspergillus species found in Capsicum powder. Aspergillus tubingensis, Aspergillus ochraceus and Aspergillus westerdijkiae, previously isolated from paprika and chilli, were inoculated on yeast extract sucrose agar and paprika extract agar supplemented with different fungicides at their recommended dosage rates, and incubated at 20 and 30 °C during 7 days. Radial growth was measured after 3, 5 and 7 days and ochratoxin A production was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection on day 7. Dodine 40% and mancozeb 80% were the most effective fungicides in inhibiting growth and ochratoxin A production, regardless of the fungal strain tested or temperature conditions. Whereas the application of fungicides could be very attractive in reducing the mycotoxigenic fungal load, it can also stimulate ochratoxin A production in some cases.