Action of carbamate biocides on sterols, gibberellin and aflatoxin formation.

An interrelationship between primary and secondary metabolites of a toxigenic mould (Aspergillus parasiticus var. globosus IMI 120920) was obtained in liquid broth containing various concentrations of dithane Z-78 and propoxur. The results show that a stimulatory response was recorded in gibberellin, protein, sterol and aflatoxin yield in cultures treated with 15, 30, 50 and 100 ppm a.i. of dithane Z-78. On the other hand, propoxur reduced the yield of gibberellin, amino acids, protein, sterol and aflatoxin. In comparison to its effect on the mycelial growth, gibberellin and aflatoxin activity is inhibited more severely than dry weight increase, thus leading to the assumption that there is a specific effect of the inhibitor on both gibberellin and aflatoxin synthesis.