Reviewing the impact of seed-borne mycoflora on mycotoxin accumulation: A threat to lentil genetic resources.

Lentil is an important legume crop with high nutritional value but susceptible to fungal attacks which due to mycotoxins production not only affect its nutritional quality but also pose high risk to its genetic resources. This review paper aims to explore that how mycotoxin accumulation by seed-borne mycoflora influence Lentil's genetic resources. We also discussed sources of toxins produced by mycoflora, their impacts on lentil production, and effective management strategies. Our study showed that genetic resources in Lentils are rich due to presence of wide range of traits, physiological, morphological and biochemical attributes. Based on literature review we highlighted common mycoflora and mycotoxins of Lentil's seeds are Penicillium, Fusarium, and Aspergillus. These pathogens produce different mycotoxins such as ochratoxins, aflatoxins, and Fusarium toxins. Based on literature review we recommend that advance agronomic practices, molecular techniques, breeding practices and post-harvest management can help to reduce the risk of mycotoxins accumulation. Overall, this study conclude that control of fungal attacks s and mycotoxins production will help to increase genetic resources of Lentil's by seed selection of prime quality and high nutritional values.

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