Effect of different Solid Media and Physiological factors on the Growth Pattern of Fusarium verticillioides Incitant of Ear Rot of Maize

Author: Renuka M. , Ajithkumar K.* , Savitha A.S. and Sunil Kulkarni

Download PDF

Abstract

Fusarium ear rot caused by Fusarium verticillioides is the newly emerging disease of maize causes 10 to 30 per cent reduction in the yield. The laboratory experiments ventured to know the effect of different solid media, temperature, relative humidity and seed moisture levels on the growth and sporulation of F. verticillioides. Among 10 media tested, the maximum colony diameter (89.67 mm) with very good sporulation was recorded on potato dextrose agar which was significantly superior over other media. The temperature of 25°C coupled with 90 per cent relative humidity were apt for the growth and sporulation of the fungus. The maximum mycelial growth of 42.67 per cent coverage of seed surface area was recorded at 41.37 per cent of seed moisture level which is significantly superior over other seed moisture levels. Therefore, the different nutrient base as well as the abiotic factors play a major role in disease development.

Keywords

Fusarium ear rot, relative humidity, seed moisture levels, solid culture media, temperature.

Conclusion

Fusarium ear rot caused by Fusarium verticillioides is the newly emerging disease of maize which results in 10 to 30 per cent reduction in the yield as well as adversely affects the physical, physiological, phytosanitary as well as nutritive qualities of the seed and the mycotoxins produced by the fungi is threatening to the human and livestock health. The present study provides information regarding the nutritional requirement and abiotic factors affecting the pathogen performance. Among different media tested, potato dextrose agar was the best media for growth and sporulation of F. verticillioides. The optimum temperature of 25°C and 90 per cent relative humidity were recorded best for maximum growth and very good sporulation of F. verticillioides. Seed moisture also had positive effect on the F. verticillioides infection in the maize seeds.

References

-

How to cite this article

Renuka M., Ajithkumar K., Sunil Kulkarni, Savitha A.S. and Sunil Kulkarni (2022). Effect of Different Solid Media and Physiological Factors on the Growth Pattern of Fusarium verticillioides Incitant of Ear Rot of Maize. Biological Forum – An Internatio