Geotrichum rot

Geotrichum rot is an infectious fungal disease caused by imperfect fungi of the genus Geotrichum, most commonly the species Geotrichum candidum. The disease belongs to the category of mold rots and is characterized by the rapid destruction of plant tissues, turning them into a watery mass with a foul odor.

The primary targets of infection are succulent fruits of vegetable crops, especially tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, and various citrus fruits during storage. Often, the pathogen manifests as a secondary infection, colonizing tissues that have already been damaged mechanically or by other pathogens.

Symptoms of the disease appear as the formation of a whitish or creamy mycelial coating, which thickens over time. The tissue beneath the coating softens, acquires a watery consistency, and as the disease progresses, the fruit completely turns into a shapeless rotting mass.

Favorable conditions for the rapid development of the pathogen include high air humidity (above 85%) and moderately warm temperatures in the range of 20–25°C. The fungus easily spreads its spores through water droplets, contaminated tools, or insect pests in storage facilities.

The economic impact of Geotrichum rot consists of significant crop losses during transport and long-term storage of produce. Control measures include crop rotation, effective disinfection of storage facilities, maintenance of optimal temperature regimes, and culling of damaged fruits before storage.

• Timely harvesting without damage
• Maintaining dry storage conditions
• Using fungicides if necessary
• Controlling insect vectors