Distribution of maize ear rot in southwestern Ethiopia and its association with biophysical factors

Abstract

A survey was carried out on 135 maize farms across nine districts and three zones of southwestern Ethiopia to determine the distribution of maize ear rot and its association with biophysical factors. Results revealed the prevalence of the disease across survey areas, albeit at varied intensities. Ear rot incidence and severity ranged from 41 to 54% and 31 to 40%, respectively. All maize grain samples collected from the survey area were positive for potentially toxigenic fungi genera, with Fusarium, Aspergillus, and Penicillium occurring at frequencies of 100%, 60%, and 58%, respectively. Higher ear rot incidence (>50%) had significant associations with zones, higher altitude, previous crop, lack of residue management, maize variety, and insect damage. The study indicates ear rot and kernel contamination by potentially toxigenic fungi is highly prevalent in southwestern Ethiopia and requires the use of certified seeds, residue management, shifting crops and reducing insect damage to manage the disease.