Evaluation of maize genotypes for resistance to aspergillus infection and aflatoxin production

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L) is one of the important food crops grown in Sri Lanka. Kernel infection of maize by Aspergillus flavus and subsequent aflatoxin production is a frequent and serious problem. Genetic resistance for A. flavus infection is the most economical and successful way of controlling infection and subsequent produc tion of aflatoxins. Therefore, a study was undertaken in two locations at Maha Illuppallama to evaluate inbred lines and hybrids for resistance to Aspergillus infection and aflatoxin production. Artificial inoculation in creased percentage kernel infection by Aspergillus compared to non-inoculated treatments. Percentage kernel infection by Aspergillus varied with genotypes and no significant relationship between percentage kernel in fection and aflatoxin levels was found. Aflatoxin production in some hybrids found to be zero when artificial ly inoculated with virulent isolates of A. flavus. Commercial hybrids, namely NK 40, Sampath and Pacific grown in Sri Lanka showed susceptibility to aflatoxin production.