Thesis (M.Sc.) - Cairo University - Faculty of African Postgraduate Studies - Department of Natural Resources

Zearalenone (ZEA) is an estrogenic mycotoxin produced by Fusarium fungi. Several species of the genus frequently contaminated different grains and other crops. ZEA has an impact on human and animal health. Therefore, this study aimed to decrease ZEA hazards using Lactobacillus Plantarum and gamma radiation. The study included surveying 150 samples grains 25 of each (wheat, white corn, yellow corn, feed corn, barley and rice) obtained from different local markets from the following Governorates; Cairo, Alexandria, Giza, Qena, and Gharbiya. The survey revealed that all grains were infected to a various degree with different fungi. The results revealed that 13 Fusarium species were isolated from (wheat, white corn, Feed corn and rice), 12 from barely and 3 from yellow corn which platted in PDA medium. On the other hand 2 positive samples contained ZEA from all collected samples. The limit of detection was lower than the limit of quantification at 10 æg/kg to 48 æg/kg in yellow corn samples. Fusarium species were identified morphologically and then molecularly using Polymerase Chain Reaction

Issued also as CD