Detection and Identification of Mycobiota Associated with Rice in Three Districts of Iraq

Abstract

The reduction of yield, quality, and nutritional value of grain cereals by different fungal species is of great concern around the world. A comprehensive investigation was made on fungal mycobiota in rice from three provinces; Baghdad, Al-Najaf and Al-Qadisiyah of Iraq surveyed during the growing season 2014-2015. Fields were selected due to their location near the Euphrates and Tigris Rivers. Mycological analysis indicated that there were a difference rates in disease infection due to various fungal species. Predominant fungal species identified as Bipolaris spicifera, Curvularia lunata, Fusarium spp., Nigrospora oryzae, Exserohilum rostratum, Alternaria spp. and Thanatephorus cucumeris. Confirmation of the associated fungal species was further accomplished by analysis of their ribosomal DNA and internal transcribed spacer region sequences. The present study provides a detailed description of the associated fungal species, which may help in understanding the population dynamics and in developing effective control measures.