Q25: The black mould fungus of onion is - Fungal Diseases of Crop Plants - Nematology- ICAR JRF/SRF 2024 | Agrigyan

• Etiology of Black Mould of Onion: Black mould of onion bulbs in field and storage is caused by the deuteromycetous/ascomycetous fungus Aspergillus niger.
• Symptoms and Characteristics: The fungus produces dense black, powdery crusts of conidia between the dry outer scales and on inner fleshy scales of the onion neck and bulb, causing softening and secondary bacterial rots.
• Other Aspergillus Species:
• Aspergillus flavus: Produces aflatoxins on groundnuts, maize, and stored grains.
• Aspergillus fumigatus: Thermotolerant human opportunistic pathogen.
• Aspergillus nidulans: Model genetic fungus.
• Conclusion: Aspergillus niger is the causal agent of black mould of onion (Option 1).

Correct option: (1) Aspergillus niger