ABSTRACT
Mycotoxins are secondary metabolites produced by fungal organisms that are commonly referred to as molds. Mycotoxins can be very simple compounds such as moniliformin or those which are extremely chemically complex such as the trichothecene type of toxins. Mold toxins vary in their toxicity toward different species of animals, but generally they are more toxic to the juveniles of any species. Mycotoxins are produced under condi tions of adequate free water, ideal relative humidity, optimum temperature, and suitable substrate such as grain starch in the presence of oxygen that al low for development of the mold organism. Preharvest conditions will influ ence the production of mycotoxins in grains and other agricultural crops. The ideal conditions for production of the different mycotoxins vary consid erably; aflatoxin production in corn usually occurs during periods of high temperatures with prolonged periods of severe drought associated with ex tensive insect activity. The production of the Fusarium mycotoxins, on the other hand, usually occurs under field conditions of cool temperatures and high moisture at harvest (CAST 1989).
