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Abstract (in English)
Citrus fruits are economically important horticultural crops, but their postharvest quality and market value are often reduced by fungal diseases. This study was conducted in Kabul city to identify the major postharvest diseases affecting citrus fruits. Samples were collected from markets, storage facilities, fruit carts, and retail fruit shops, and disease identification was carried out through symptom observation and laboratory diagnosis. The findings showed that citrus fruits are affected by several important fungal diseases after harvest, resulting in considerable quantitative and qualitative losses. The diseases identified in this study included brown rot, anthracnose, Fusarium dry rot, gray mold rot, blue mold rot, sour rot, green mold, and melanose. These diseases significantly reduce fruit quality, shelf life, and marketability. The study highlights the importance of accurate disease identification and improved postharvest handling and management practices to reduce losses and maintain the quality of citrus fruits in local markets.