A. Kumar’s scientific contributions

Alternaria fruit rot disease was observed on fruits of brinjal (Solanum melongena) at Jobner in Rajasthan. Alternaria alternata was isolated from fruits and observed to be pathogenic under artificial conditions. Various fungicides, plant extracts and biological agents were tested against the fungus and its culture behavior such as mycelial growth and sporulation were observed under in vitro conditions. Among fungicides mancozeb (1000ppm) was found most effective in inhibiting mycelial growth and sporulation of A. alternata followed by copper oxychloride and iprodione (1000ppm). Garlic extract at 15% concentration inhibited mycelial growth and sporulation of the fungus followed by neem and onion in poisoned food technique. Trichoderma viride was found most effective biocontrol agent and produced a clear inhibition zone followed by Trichoderma harzianum and Sporidiobolus pararoseus.