Vol. 9, Issue 12, Part E (2025)

Postharvest fungal decay continues to be a significant barrier to mango (Mangifera indica L.) production, leading to considerable economic losses due to decreased storage life, compromised market quality, and reduced export potential. Anthracnose, mainly caused by species within the Colletotrichum gloeosporioides complex, and stem-end rot, primarily linked to Lasiodiplodia theobromae and L. pseudotheobromae, are the most destructive postharvest diseases affecting tropical mango supply chains. This research examined the mycological diversity related to postharvest anthracnose in mango fruits sourced from the Konkan, Nashik, and Paithan regions of Western India. A total of 54 fungal isolates were obtained from symptomatic fruits representing 34 different mango cultivars. Morphological evaluations indicated distinct colony morphotypes and conidial structures that were consistent with Colletotrichum and Lasiodiplodia species, in addition to opportunistic genera such as Aspergillus, Nigrospora, and Alternaria. Molecular identification through ITS sequencing validated the presence of Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, C. siamense, Lasiodiplodia theobromae, and L. pseudotheobromae as the primary pathogenic taxa. Variations in GC content (45.8-60.2%) and phylogenetic clustering illustrated well-supported lineage separation and minimal intra-species divergence, suggesting stable pathogen populations across different geographic and host backgrounds. Analysis of pathogen frequency indicated that Colletotrichum and Lasiodiplodia each represented approximately 33% of the isolates, highlighting their dual role in contributing to postharvest decay. The extensive presence of these pathogens among various cultivars indicates that environmental factors and handling methods have a more significant impact on disease manifestation than the differences between varieties. These results underscore the urgent necessity for comprehensive postharvest disease management strategies that incorporate swift molecular diagnostics, sanitation measures, regulated storage conditions, and bio-based antifungal treatments. Implementing such strategies is vital for reducing storage losses, enhancing fruit quality, and bolstering the competitiveness of mangoes in both domestic and international markets.