Effects of Irrigation and Kernel Injury on Aflatoxin B1Production in Selected Maize Hybrids

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Abstract
Effects of irrigation, simulated corn earworm (SCEW) [Heliothis zea] damage, and naturally occurring insect damage on aflatoxin B1 production in 15 selected maize hybrids were evaluated during 1979 and 1980. Aflatoxin production in preharvest maize among the hybrids attained levels ranging from 8966-70,809 ppb in treatments receiving SCEW damage and Aspergillus flavus inoculation. Aflatoxin levels in hybrids inoculated with A. flavus without SCEW damage ranged from 32-1863 ppb. Natural infection resulted in aflatoxin levels of 2-605 ppb. Irrigation suppressed aflatoxin production in kernels receiving both SCEW damage and A. flavus inoculation. Insect damage correlated (P = 0.01) with preharvest aflatoxin levels when averaged over hybrids and maturity groups for 1979 (r = 0.50) and 1980 (r = 0.73). Grain from inoculated and uninoculated maize hybrids varied significantly in levels of preharvest aflatoxin. There was little agreement between 1979 and 1980, however, suggesting strong environmental effects on aflatoxin production.