Mycotoxins associated to Fusarium species that caused Fusarium Head Blight in wheat in Latin-America

Abstract

Fusarium Head Blight (FHB) is one of the most severe disease affecting wheat crops worldwide. The main pathogen associated to the disease, Fusarium graminearum sensu stricto (Schwabe), can survive on stubble, and under favorable environmental conditions can infect wheat spikes. Different strategies have been proposed for managing FHB in order to reduce the losses on yield and quality and food safety due to the accumulation of mycotoxins. Among these strategies we can mention cultural practices (type of tillage, crop rotation), fungicides application,use of less susceptible cultivar, identifi cation of rotations least conducive to the built up of inoculum, and biocontrol. The possible control of the pathogen and reduction in toxin accumulation can be achieved through Integrated Pest Management (IPM). Latin American countries mainly Brazil and Argentina are good wheat producers and exporters. FHB epidemics have occurred in different years, and reduction in yield and deoxynivalenol contamination were observed. These situations cause severe economic losses due to commercial restrictions in the domestic and international markets. During the last decade, changes in the cultural practices have been done mainly in relation to tillage type. No tillage or reduced tillage are in use in many Latin American countries. This condition can modify the inoculum potential in areas of wheat cultivation.