Comparative Studies of the Mycoflora of Dry and Fresh Maize (<i>Zea mays</i>) rhizosphere

Abstract

Comparative studies of the mycoflora of dry and fresh maize rhizosphere was evaluated in the laboratory. Rhizosphere and soil sample were taken during rainy season from two different maize farms in Bori, Khana Local Government Area, Ogoni, Rivers State. The maize stumps were collected by the use of pre-sterilized hand trowel. Collected maize stump with rhizosphere soil was carefully placed in polythene bag and the open end tied. Stock solutions were prepared and diluted serially for plate count and fungal isolation using pour plate method. Sabouraud dextrose agar was the preferred media. Discrete colonies were sub-cultured for precise identification of fungi. Total fungal count and the isolation frequency of each identified genera were determined. Analysis of the samples revealed the presence of four mould genera Aspergillus, Fusarium, Penicillium, Trichoderma and yeast. The frequency of occurrence was Aspergillus 16%, Fusarium 2%, Penicillium 68%, Trichoderma 9% and Yeast 5% in dry maize rhizosphere. The frequency of occurrence in fresh maize rhizosphere was Aspergillus 27%, Fusarium 0.0%, Penicillium 14%, Trichoderma 47% and Yeast 12%. The results showed that Penicillium population within the rhizosphere of dry maize plant was very high compared to that in fresh maize plant rhizosphere. Some of these fungi genera are known to be pathogenic to both plants and animals; such as ear rot in maize plant, hematologic disorder in humans, among others, hence it was recommended that farmers should perform soil analysis for fungi before cultivating maize for maximal production.