IDENTIFICATION AND PREVALENCE OF ASPERGILLUS SPECIES IN SOILS OF FARS AND KERMAN PROVINCES OF IRAN AND EVALUATION OF THEIR AFLATOXIN PRODUCTION

Abstract

<em>Aspergillus</em> species are major causes of pre- and post-harvest degradation of agricultural products. During 2004-07, the presence and population of <em>Aspergillus</em> species were studied in various fields and orchards of Fars and Kerman Provinces. Soil samples were collected from 0-40 cm depth. Isolates were recovered from soil using modified Czapek, AFPA and SPDA media. Based on macroscopic and microscopic criteria, five sections (<em>Flavi</em>, <em>Nigri</em>, <em>Circumdati</em>, <em>Fumigati</em>, <em>Terrei</em>) and 13 following species were identified.