Effect of Castor Bean Oil on Post Harvest Fungal Pathogen of Coconut: Lasiodiplodia theobromae

Effect of Castor Bean Oil on Post Harvest Fungal Pathogen of Coconut: Lasiodiplodia theobromae

Lasiodiplodia theobromae is a cosmopolitan soil-borne fungus that causes both field and storage diseases in plant species leading to economic losses. The fungicides used to control these diseases are harmful as they leave residues, which may be regarded as problem for the marketing and export of Brazilian fruits. This study evaluated the in vitro effect of castor bean oil (Ricinus communis), and its constituents, on the mycelial growth and spore germination of this pathogen, suggesting an alternative to chemical control during the post-harvest.