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Submitted to: Mycological International Conference Proceedings
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 8/30/2006 Publication Date: 9/30/2006 Citation: Horn, B.W. 2006. Biodiversity of Aspergillus flavus in the USA. Mycological International Conference Proceedings. Interpretive Summary: not required Technical Abstract: This report serves to document research conducted under a CRADA with Circle One Global, Inc. Additional details of research can be found in the report for the parent project 6604-42000-007-00D, Biochemical, Physical, Microbiological Management for Prevention of Mycotoxins in Peanuts. The efficacy of the biopesticide, afla-guard®, in reducing aflatoxin contamination of peanuts was determined during the first year of its commercial use. Afla-guard® was applied to approximately 5000 acres of peanuts in Georgia and Alabama. Analyses of 582 farmers’ stock loads showed that use of afla-guard® reduced aflatoxin contamination by an average 85%. Aflatoxin was reduced in shelled, edible grade peanuts by as much as 98%. Long-term laboratory studies were initiated to evaluate the relative effectiveness of various nontoxigenic strains of A. flavus for reducing aflatoxin contamination. Many nontoxigenic strains have been isolated from different parts of the U.S. and a newly developed laboratory assay is being used to test the relative effectiveness of those strains in reducing aflatoxin. Thus far, no strain has been identified that shows more potential for reducing aflatoxin in peanuts than the strain currently used as the active ingredient in afla-guard®. However, studies will continue to assess different strains. |
