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<ol>
<li>To evaluate corn hybrids developed by Pioneer for resistance to aflatoxin accumulation in field tests. </li>
<li>To investigate the association between aflatoxin accumulation and fumonisin accumulation in corn. </li>
<li>To compare two methods of inoculating developing corn ears with fungal spores in evaluations of aflatoxin resistance.</li></ol>
<p>
Pioneer will furnish to ARS approximately 40 corn hybrids including some that have been selected for resistance to fumonisin accumulation. The hybrids will be evaluated for aflatoxin accumulation in field tests conducted in two locations in Mississippi. </p>
<P>
Developing ears will be inoculated with an Aspergillus flavus spore suspension using two methods of inoculation, one that wounds kernels and one that does not. Mature ears will be harvested and the level of aflatoxin determined in laboratory assays. </p>
<P>
The degree of kernel infection by Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium moniliforme will also be determined. Pioneer will evaluate the same hybrids for fumonisin contamination and for agronomic quality. </p>
<P>
Results of these evaluations will be used in assessing the potential commercial value of these hybrids, the association between aflatoxin and fumonisin contamination, and in developing more efficient procedures for evaluating corn for resistance to aflatoxin.</p>