Scanning EM Studies on the Colonization of Dent Corn byAspergillus flavus

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Abstract
Colonization of silks and kernels of preharvest corn by A. flavus was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Silks of 3 physiological ages (green unpollinated, yellow-brown, brown) were examined 4, 8, and 24 h after inoculation. The few conidia that germinated on unpollinated silks failed to colonize the silks. Conidia on yellow-brown silks germinated in 4-8 h and extensively colonized the silks, especially near pollen grains, where thick hyphal mats produced numerous conidiophores. Indirect and direct penetration of silk was observed. Conidia germinated on brown silks but hyphal growth was sparse. SEM observaiton of split kernels from ears inoculated with A. flavus (inoculum applied to kernels) showed early hyphal growth localized in the tip cap.