The xerophilic species that presented an increase in stored samples were reported as those responsible for considerable economic losses and common contaminants of stored grains, nuts, spices and cereal products). They have little importance regarding mycotoxin production according to Pitt and Hocking (2009), but long periods of storage of cocoa seeds should be avoided. Wood (1985) recommended that cocoa beans in tropical countries can have safe storage only for 2 or 3 months after which there is a problem of mold development. This happens because cocoa beans are hygroscopic
and will absorb moisture under humid conditions until they reach equilibrium. In adverse conditions, such as low a w , the fungal spores can remain viable for long periods, even without vegetative growth of hyphae. Storage under poor conditions, in which the cocoa is subjected to environments with high humidity, can provide suitable conditions for spore germination, fungal growth and decay, besides the possibility of toxin production. According to the sameauthor,cocoa beans with a moisture contentof 8% or more will turn moldy.