Effects of fusaric acid on Zea mays L. seedlings

the effects of fusaric acid, a mycotoxin produced by fusarium sp, were investigated in relation to its action on corn seedlings. the mycotoxin inhibited the development of corn seedlings at 0.2 mm, causing root length reduction. anatomically, alterations were only visible from 0.5 mm fusaric acid, directly influencing the cell differentiation process. precocious differentiation reduces the elongation region. this explains (1) that root shortening is morphologically visible, and (2) the differentiation of a great number of lateral roots nearby the apex, which can be seen in longitudinal cuts.