Efficacy of the Yeast in Biocontrol of Gray Mold Decay of Tomatoes and Study of the Mechanisms Involved.

Gray mold decay is a widespread postharvest disease in tomato that results from infection by the pathogen , leading to huge economic losses. The objective of this study was to select the most effective antagonistic yeast to control tomato gray mold from six potential biocontrol agents and to investigate the possible control mechanism. The results showed that the yeast was the most effective in inhibiting among the six strains both in vivo and in vitro on tomato, with a colony diameter of 11 mm, a decay diameter of 20 mm, and the lowest decay incidence (53%)-values significantly smaller and lower than the values recorded for the control group and the other yeasts.

Recent advances in infection mechanisms and current methods in controlling in postharvest apples.

One of the most significant challenges associated with postharvest apple deterioration is the blue mold caused by , which leads to considerable economic losses to apple production industries. Apple fruits are susceptible to mold infection owing to their high nutrient and water content, and current physical control methods can delay but cannot completely inhibit growth. Biological control methods present promising alternatives; however, they are not always cost effective and have application restrictions.