Spoiled fruits can harbor a variety of fungal species, causing significant economic losses and posing potential health risks to consumers. This study aimed to isolate and characterize fungal species from spoilt fruits collected from Utako Market in Abuja, Nigeria. A total of 100 spoilt fruit samples were collected and subjected to fungal isolation using standard microbiological techniques. Fungal colonies were identified based on their morphological characteristics and further confirmed using molecular techniques such as DNA sequencing. The identified fungal species were then characterized for their growth patterns, spore morphology, and enzymatic activities. The results revealed a diverse range of fungal species associated with spoilt fruits, including Aspergillus, Penicillium, Fusarium, Rhizopus, and Alternaria. Some of the isolated fungi exhibited the ability to produce mycotoxins, indicating a potential health risk. This study provides valuable insights into the fungal diversity present in spoilt fruits at Utako Market, highlighting the need for proper handling, storage, and quality control measures to minimize fungal contamination and ensure food safety.

Fungal species, spoiled fruits, isolation

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