Evaluation of the antifungal effect of Pomegranate (Punica granitum L.) cultivar Meles Saveh on the fungus that causes rotting of Pomegranate fruit infected with neck worm (Ectomyelois ceratoniae)

The purpose of this research is to answer the question, which composition of pomegranate fruit (L. Punica granitum) of the variety Meles Saveh causes the growth or prevents the growth of the fungus that causes fruit rot infected with neck worm (Ectomyelois ceratoniae)

In this research, different parts of pomegranate including fruit skin, seeds, pomegranate juice and pomegranate paste of Meles Saveh variety were prepared. The phenolic and alkaloid content of all parts were extracted and measured using solvents such as water, alcohol, and acetone. Aspergillus fungus (Asperjillus Sp.) was isolated and identified from the decay site infected with neck worm. The effect of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of pomegranate fruit components on this fungus was studied.

The results showed that pomegranate juice and dry paste have the most alkaloids and phenols. The effect of aqueous and alcoholic extracts on Aspergillus mushroom showed that aqueous and alcoholic extracts prevent the growth of this fungus, but the inhibitory effect of alcoholic pericarp is the most.

Meles Saveh pomegranate fruit components are rich in alkaloid and phenolic compounds. Antifungal effect of aqueous and alcoholic extracts of fruit pericarp can prevent the growth of fungus.