The Viability of Tender Coconut Water as a Medium for Fungal Cultures

Authors

  • S. Shayanthavi Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, SRI LANKA. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1124-7271
  • R. Kapilan Department of Botany, Faculty of Science, University of Jaffna, Jaffna, SRI LANKA. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7608-1615
  • I. Wickramasinghe Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Nugegoda, SRI LANKA. https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1805-4923

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.22452/mjs.vol45no3.1

Keywords:

Colony diameter, Dry weight, Fungal growth, Tender coconut water

Abstract

Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) is one of the most widely used media for fungal cultivation due to its nutrient-rich composition and consistent support for fungal growth. However, its reliance on potato extracts and relatively high cost have driven interest in identifying more sustainable and affordable alternatives in regions with limited access to commercial media. In this study, tender coconut water (TCW), the sterile, nutrient-rich liquid endosperm of immature coconuts, was explored as a potential supplementary or supportive medium for fungal cultivation. TCW-based agar media were formulated and compared with conventional PDA by assessing fungal growth based on colony diameter and dry biomass production. The results demonstrated that 100% TCW supported the highest fungal growth across all tested concentrations. To further enhance its effectiveness, the TCW medium was optimized using the Taguchi method by varying agar concentration, dextrose supplementation, and pH. The optimized conditions varied among fungal species. Mucor sp. and Penicillium chrysogenum showed maximum biomass in media containing 1% agar, no added dextrose, and a pH of 5.6. Fusarium oxysporum grew best in media with 1.5% agar, 1% dextrose, and a pH of 4.6, while Aspergillus flavus achieved optimal growth at 1% agar, 1% dextrose, and a pH of 6.6. Although TCW supported greater colony expansion, the fungal dry weight remained higher in PDA, showing superior biomass production. Nevertheless, tender coconut water demonstrated its potential as a natural medium for fungal growth. While TCW may not completely replace PDA, it shows promise as a cost-effective supportive medium, particularly in tropical regions or where resources are limited.

Published

30-09-2026

Issue

Vol. 45 No. 3 (2026)

Section

Original Articles

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