Abstract: The andiroba (Carapa guianensis Aubl.) oil (AO) antifungal effect was evaluated in strains of Fusarium, Aspergillus and Penicillium isolated from naturally contaminated maize (Zea mays L.). They were exposed to AO (10 to 40%), incubated and the antifungal effectiveness evaluated. AO had the best effectiveness at 40% for Fusarium and Penicillium (inhibition: 83.8 and 89.3%, respectively) genera, being Aspergillus not as efficient (6.2%) under the condition. Regarding new colonies formation, AO inhibited 100 and 75% of Aspergillus and Penicillium at its highest concentration. Further studies will be carried out in order to check sensory possible alterations.
Keywords: Amazon region, andiroba oil, food security, fungi, maize grains
