Mv. Macdonald et R. Chapman, THE INCIDENCE OF FUSARIUM-MONILIFORME ON MAIZE FROM CENTRAL-AMERICA, AFRICA AND ASIA DURING 1992-1995, Plant Pathology, 46(1), 1997, pp. 112-125
Samples of maize seed were obtained from countries in Central America,
Africa and Asia and assessed for fungal infection. Fusarium spp. were
the largest single group of fungi present, and from these Fusarium mo
niliforme was the species most frequently isolated. Other fungi, inclu
ding Stenocarpella (Diplodia) maydis, S. macrospora and Acremonium str
ictum, were also present in significant numbers. Isolates of F. monili
forme were characterized for mating populations, using RAPDs, and a nu
mber of isolates, taken at random from those assigned to specific mati
ng groups, were also confirmed by crossing. Isolates were also charact
erized for fusaric acid production and significant differences in fusa
ric acid production were detected between isolates from different coun
tries and regions within countries. A detailed analysis of isolates fr
om one country, Kenya, was undertaken. The importance of the pathogens
is discussed in relation to human, animal and seed health and quarant
ine regulations, and plant breeding objectives.