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Germination of Penicillium digitatum Spores as Affected by Solutions of Volatile Components of Citrus Fruits. Paul L. Davis, Research Chemist, Market Quality Research Division, ARS, USDA, Orlando, Florida 32803; John J. Smoot, Research Plant Pathologist, Market Quality Research Division, ARS, USDA, Orlando, Florida 32803. Phytopathology 62:488-489. DOI: 10.1094/Phyto-62-488.

Volatile compounds known to occur in mature citrus fruits were evaluated for their effects on spore germination of Penicillium digitatum. The aldehydes tested inhibited germination, whereas esters, terpenes, and alcohols did not. The germination of spores was inhibited 50% or more by 1.0, 0.2, 0.1, and 0.06 mmole/liter of C₅, C₆, C₇, and C₈ aliphatic aldehydes, respectively. None of the compounds induced germination of the spores in distilled water.