Mycological, Proximate and Mineral Analysis of Coated and Decoated Seeds of Fluted Pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis [F] Hook)

Abstract

Comparative studies on mycological, proximate and mineral analysis of coated and decoated seeds of fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis(F) Hook) were carried out. Results showed that four genera of fungi (Rhizopus, Aspergillus, Fusarium and Penicillium) were isolated from coated and decoated seeds. Rhizopus and Aspergillus were predominant in both seed samples. Decoated seeds harboured more fungi species; R. stolonifer 40%, A. niger 50%, A. flavus 60% and F. oxysportum 20%. While R. stolonifer 80%, A. niger 26% and P. digitatum 18% were isolated from coated seed samples. Proximate composition for coated and decoated seeds revealed moisture (20.1 and 22.5%), Ash (3.25 and 3.45%), Fibre (7.52 and 3.65%), Lipid (25.1 and 28.95%), Carbohydrate (12.82 and 10.87%) and Protein (31.21 and 30.58%) respectively. Mineral composition comprising of magnesium, potassium and sodium were higher in decoated seeds, while calcium, phosphorus and iron were higher in coated seeds.