Managing and monitoring of Aspergillus flavus in corn using bioplastic-based formulations

In this study, we evaluated the feasibility of bioplastic-based formulations for delivering a non-aflatoxigenic strain of Aspergillus flavus and for monitoring Aspergilli with the final objective of controlling aflatoxin contamination in corn. Field application of inoculated bioplastic granules showed a rapid shift in the composition of soil A. flavus population, with a significant decrease in relative abundance of indigenous aflatoxigenic isolates. Application of bioplastic granules at 30 kg ha −1 was more efficient in replacing aflatoxigenic isolates than a 15 kg ha −1 dosage. In the test plots evaluated, aflatoxin contamination levels at corn maturity were 4.4 and 28.9 ng g −1 for the 2009 and 2010 field seasons, respectively. However, the biocontrol formulation was effective in reducing aflatoxin contamination in both years. More precisely, soil application of 15 and 30 kg ha −1 of bioplastic granules reduced aflatoxin contamination by 59 and 86% in 2009, and 80 and 92% in 2010, respectively. ► We evaluate a bioplastic-based formulation for controlling aflatoxins in corn. ► We also use bioplastic formulations for monitoring Aspergilli in soil and kernels. ► Bioplastic granules were inoculated with an atoxigenic strain of Aspergillus flavus. ► Field application of granules significantly reduced aflatoxin contamination of corn. ► Bioplastic was also effective in monitoring Aspergilli in soil and corn kernels.