Abstract
The mechanisms by which toxigenicAspergillus flavus gains access into cottonseed are not well understood. Microscopy used in conjunction with chemical assays has provided insight into some fungus-plant interactions leading to fungal infection of the seed. Growth of fungus was traced by optical and electron microscopy from inoculated wounds in the boll surface, through underlying fibers and into the seed. Hyphae were found growing under the chalazal cap of a seed after it had been dried slowly. Presence of fungal hyphae and spores was verified on seed parts where no toxin was found. In sliced seed, the decreasing thickness during embryogenesis of the nucellus membrane surrounding the embryo was shown and this thinning may be correlated with periods of maximum toxin formation.
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Goynes, W.R., Lee, L.S. Aspergillus flavus infection of developing cottonseed: Microscopical determination of mycelial progression and associated aflatoxin formation. Arch. Environ. Contam. Toxicol. 18, 421–428 (1989). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01062368
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01062368