Mycoflora of Dormant Crocus Sativus Corms in Morocco

Abstract

Saffron is a geophyte species that propagates only vegetatively through the multiplication of corms. The extension of the cultivation area needs high-quality corms. Low multiplication rates and fungal infestation of corms reduce productivity and quality, thus limiting the availability of planting material. The study of fungi linked to corms in the dormant phase of saffron revealed the presence of different fungal species. The isolation from corms showing different types of symptoms allowed to note the dominance of the genus Fusarium, with variable isolation percentages, the highest was 20% for Fusarium solani and the lowest 8% for F. equiseti. Isolation from corms with small necrotic spots showed the presence of 8 fungal species, with a dominance of Aspergillus, Aspergillus niger (25%), Rhizopus oryzae (20%) and Fusarium solani (13%). Isolation from healthy corms showed dominance of Acremonium sp. (43%), Aspergillus nomius (20%) and Ulocladium sp. (15%). Other species were encountered, such as Beauveria sp. And Botrytis sp. The percentage of indeterminate fungi, isolated from the three types of corm lots, was variable, in the order of 14% in diseased corms and 9% in those appearing healthy. The study of the fungal diversity associated with corms meant for sowing may provide useful information on the pathogens carried by the corms. This latter can cause fungal diseases responsible for serious losses in saffron fields. Using high-quality corms will probably contribute to a good development of saffron plants, a satisfactory stigmas yield and the formation of a large number of mother bulbs (bulbs capable of producing bulbils in the following season).