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Disease: Aspergillus Ear Rot of Corn
Pathogen: Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus
Host: Corn, Zea mays

Aspergillus ear rot of corn is caused by Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. These fungi may colonize only a few kernels on each ear, but the colonization is a cause for concern nevertheless because these fungi produce aflatoxin, a potent carcinogen. The disease is most severe in areas with high temperatures and drought.

Aflatoxin can be identified in colonized corn kernels by viewing in UV light. The blue color indicates that the kernels contain the toxin.

These images can be found in the American Phytopathological Society CD-Rom, Diseases of Cereal Grain Diseases.

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