The 1977 Corn-Aflatoxin Epiphytotic in Alabama. F. A. Gray, Plant Pathologist-Nematologist, Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, Auburn University, Auburn 36830. W. F. Faw, Agronomist, and J. L. Boutwell, Economist, Alabama Cooperative Extension Service, Auburn University, Auburn 36830. Plant Dis. 66:221-222. Accepted for publication 19 May 1981. Copyright 1982 American Phytopathological Society. DOI: 10.1094/PD-66-221.

A prolonged drought and severe fall armyworm infestation were probable factors resulting in the high level of aflatoxin B₁ contamination in the 1977 Alabama corn crop. Of 2,489 samples tested from 1 August to 31 December 1977, 63% exceeded the guideline for aflatoxin of 20 parts per billion set by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The percentages of samples exceeding 20 parts per billion in south, central, and north Alabama were 82, 54, and 48%, respectively. The corresponding percentages below normal rainfall for the three geographical regions were 45, 22, and 16%, respectively. Losses directly attributed to aflatoxin during 1977 exceeded $2 million.

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