Aflatoxigenic Fungi

Aflatoxigenic Fungi: Agriculture and Health Implications provides examination of aflatoxin-producing fungi focusing on biology, ecology, and consequences across agriculture, animal welfare, and human health sectors. This comprehensive resource explores Aspergillus species producing potent mycotoxins posing risks to crop productivity, livestock health, food safety, and public health. Coverage systematically addresses how climatic conditions, agricultural practices, and post-harvest handling influence fungal proliferation and toxin production. The book details susceptibility of staple crops including maize, groundnuts, and sorghum particularly in tropical and subtropical regions where warm temperatures and humidity create favorable conditions exacerbated by climate change. Advanced sections examine aflatoxin exposure impacts on livestock productivity, illness manifestations, and secondary contamination risks through animal products affecting human consumers. In humans, chronic exposure associations span liver cancer, immune suppression, and childhood growth stunting across affected populations. Coverage emphasizes control strategies including biological control agents, improved storage methodologies, and policy frameworks for aflatoxin regulation. The text addresses international collaboration needs, surveillance systems, research investment, and education programs managing aflatoxin risks. Readers develop understanding of fungal biology, contamination mechanisms, health consequences, and control approaches. This volume serves researchers, agricultural professionals, policymakers, public health specialists, and food safety professionals addressing aflatoxigenic fungi challenges globally.