The distribution of Fusarium mycotoxins in maize: preliminary results

Fusarium species are found world-wide in maize and cause not only considerable crop losses, but produce also toxic secondary metabolites (mycotoxins) like deoxynivalenol (DON) and zearalenone (ZEA). The purpose of this study was to carry out exploratory research about the presence of mycotoxins in maize. In a first experiment the varietal differences in susceptibility to Fusarium and contamination of mycotoxins were evaluated. Silage maize varieties seemed more susceptible to Fusarium than corn varieties. Even plants with no visible symptoms contained mycotoxins. High concentrations of DON and ZEA were found in kernels as well in the vegetative parts of the plant. Mycotoxins were especially located at the stem base. A clear relationship was detected between chlorophyll content and visible symptoms of Fusarium species. An ensilage experiment indicated that the ensilage process has no reducing effects on the mycotoxin content. Further research is necessary to confirm these first results.