PhD Graduands September 2023

Potato cyst nematodes is a significant constraint to potato production in Kenya. Therefore, a study was carried out with the aim of determining the diversity of PCN populations in the country; site specific factors that contribute to spread and build-up in population density; relative yield loss caused by the pest; and the efficacy and active ingredients of selected botanical pesticides in PCN management. All the samples from Nyandarua, Nakuru and Meru counties gave amplicons of 434bp that are specific for G. rostochiensis. The fixation index (Fst) ranged from 0.021 to 0.048.

Maize, the main staple food in Kenya is largely affected by mycotoxin contamination mainly aflatoxin and fumonisins due to attack by toxigenic Aspergillus and Fusarium species, resulting in health and economic burdens.