Greenhouse and field studies were conducted in two peanut growing
seasons. 2001 and 2002 to determine the effect of micronutrients on the incidence of
peanut yellow mold caused by aflatoxiqentc fungi (Aspergillus nevus and A.
parasiticus) and aflatoxin content. Iron sulphate. manganese sulphate and zinc
sulphate at a . 250 and 500 ppm. combined with or without calcium sulphate
(Gypsum at 500 Kg/fed. were selected for this study). Dipping peanut seeds in water
solution of previous micronutrients showed significant reductions in the incidence of
peanut yellow mold and in the frequency of aflatoxigenic fungi. Also an increase in
peanut yield. The occurrence of aflatoxigenic fungi and aflatoxin contaminations on
shells and seeds increased in zinc sulphate treatments. The additions of Gypsum
alone or in combination with the mlcroeternents perform a reduction in yellow mold
frequency. Gypsum make microelements more effective in reducing the aflatoxin
content in shells and seeds.