Ecological Basis for Aflatoxin Reduction through Crop Management and Biological Control

<ol> <li> Improve manufacture and formulation of ATOX for management of aflatoxin
contamination. Specifically address problems in applying atoxigenic strain
technology to commercial practice and optimize formulation for successful delivery of
biocontrol agents. <li> Characterize influences of agronomic practices (tillage,
irrigation, crop rotation, application strategy) on biocontrol of aflatoxin
contamination and optimize field use of ATOX on a commercial scale. <li> Develop an
epidemiological model to explain formation of aflatoxins in Texas and Arizona, with
emphasis on the contamination after crop maturation (the second phase of
contamination). <li> Characterize the major vegetative compatibility groups (VCGs)
associated with Arizona and Texas agriculture and associated niches, and test
geographical and niche specialization in order to improve understanding of the
etiology of contamination and selection of ATOX with improved competitive ability in
target crops/areas. Develop both a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) database and
molecular tracking techniques useful in characterizing the composition of A. flavus
communities, at both the strain and VCG level on crops and in the environment. <li>
Characterize A. flavus responses to varying environments and ecological niches
(including animal and plant hosts) to assess fungal adaptations leading to niche
competence and to facilitate selection of elite biocontrol strains and development of
management practices. Data will be used to contribute to select elite biocontrol
strains with improved efficacy and safety.