A comparison of isolates of Claviceps spp. for the ability to grow and to produce ergot alkaloids on certain nutrients.

Abstract

Isolates of Claviceps purpurea and Claviceps spp. obtained from various geographical areas were compared for their ability to grow and to produce ergot alkaloids in vitro on various carbon and nitrogen sources. While some differences in utilization of carbon sources for growth were found, there was no observed correlation between utilization of carbohydrates and the capacity to produce ergot alkaloids. The amount of alkaloid produced by different strains depended upon both the carbon and nitrogen sources. In general, those cultures capable of alkaloid production were able to do so on more than one carbon source, but the carbon source allowing greatest production differed from one strain to another. Both producing and non-producing strains could utilize succinic acid as a carbon source for growth, but neither could utilize L-tryptophane as a carbon or nitrogen source for growth.