Preharvest Maize Fungal Microbiome and Mycotoxin Contamination: Case of Zambia’s Different Rainfall Patterns
Bwalya Katati, Pierre Schoenmakers, Henry Njapau, Paul W. Kachapulula, Bas J. Zwaan, Anne D. van Diepeningen, Sijmen E. Schoustra
Abstract
Fungi contaminate various crops worldwide. Maize, an important human staple and livestock cereal, is susceptible to contamination with fungi in the field. Fungi are drivers of plant disease and can compromise yield. Some species of fungi are known to produce chemical compounds (mycotoxins), which are cancer-causing agents in humans and impair livestock productivity. It is important to understand the spectrum of fungi on maize and how weather conditions can impact their abundance. This is because the abundance of fungi in the field can have a bearing on the health of the crop as well as potential for mycotoxins contamination. By understanding the spectrum of the preharvest fungi, it becomes possible to know the key fungi adapted to the maize and subsequently the potential for crop disease as well as mycotoxins contamination. The influence of weather conditions on the spectrum of preharvest fungi on maize has not been fully explored.