Full Length Research Paper
Abstract
The impact of fungal diseases on maize productivity remains a significant concern in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), as it is globally. In Burkina Faso, maize production is frequently affected by various fungal species, leading to yield losses and a decline in production quality. These losses are due to factors such as sowing failures, delayed plant growth, and the production of mycotoxins that can adversely affect human and animal health. To evaluate the extent of contamination in seeds produced in Burkina Faso; this study examined the mycoflora in 68 maize seed samples collected from the region's primary maize-cultivating areas. The principal objective was to ascertain the prevalence of major fungal diseases affecting maize grain in Burkina Faso. The ISTA method and the moistened blotting paper method of Mathur and Kongsdal were used to prepare the samples for analysis and to assess the mycoflora, respectively. The samples were incubated in a chamber at 24 ± 2°C under 12 h of near ultraviolet (UV) light alternating with darkness (12 h). The assessment identified 22 fungal species, including 19 pathogenic fungi and three saprophytic fungi. The most prevalent fungi on the seeds analyzed were Fusarium verticillioides, Penicillium species, Aspergillus niger, and Aspergillus flavus. Infection rates varied considerably between varieties and regions of origin. The findings of this study will provide a foundation for mapping fungal diseases affecting maize in Burkina Faso and will inform the development of more effective and appropriate strategies for combating common maize fungal diseases through national research programs.
Key words: Phytosanitary, maize seed, Burkina Faso.
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