Effect of downy mildew disease on chemical composition of maize tassels and on infection development of common smut disease [electronic resource].

Includes reference.

Maize common smut disease caused by Ustilago maydis was distributed in the same fields which were infected by downy mildew disease caused by Prenosc!erospora sorghi, especially on tassels of susceptible maize genotypes. Length Of susceptible plants were significantly decreased comparing with healthy ones. Analysis of total phenols (free and conjugated) in maize tassels indicated significant increase of free, phenols in infected tassels with downy mildew disease, comparing with healthy tassels. However, the reverse was found in case of conjugated phenols. Moreover, total and reducing sugars were significantly increased in tassels infected with downy mildew disease comparing with healthy tassels, the reverse was also true in case of non-reducing sugars. On the other hand, protein, ash, oil, free fatty acid (F.F.A) and acid value (A. V) were significantly increased in tassels infected with downy mildew disease, comparing with healthy ones. As a result of infecting maize plants by downy mildew disease, which significantly increase total and free phenols, total and reducing sugars, protein, ash, oil, free fatty acids and acid value in tassels of infected plants. The tassels became very suitable to be invaded by Ustilago maydis causal organism of common smut disease of maize.

Summary in Arabic.

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