Comparative Study on the Incidence of Aspergillus flavus in Farmer’s Field and Stored Maize (Zea mays) Seed in Northern Region of Ghana

Abstract

Aspergillus flavus is predominant among other fungi species responsible for aflatoxin contamination of crops on the field and in storage. A study was conducted to determine the incidence of Aspergillus flavus in maize seeds from various sources. Sixty (60) maize seed samples were collected from farmers and marketers from different storage structures within Tamale metropolis, Savelugu and Tolon districts,northern region of Ghana. Three different fungi species were isolated from the maize samples. These were Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger and Fusarium spp. Total fungi species differed significantly. Tamale metropolis recorded the least occurrence of fungi species. Aspergillus flavus recorded varied occurrences across all three districts with the highest incidence recorded in Savelugu (42%). Aspergillus flavus was found predominant in maize from the markets than maize from the farmers. The incidences of Aspergillus flavus varied with the method of storage. Storage using cocoa sack recorded the highest incidence (69%), with the lowest (13%) in hanging shed. Aspergillus flavus was however found to be associated with maize from all three districts studied. Proper drying and use of proper storage structures are recommended as a way of combating the high incidences of Aspergillus flavus.