What toxic compound may be a concern in wheat seed infected with scab disease?

The concern regarding toxic compounds in wheat seed infected with scab disease primarily revolves around vomitoxin, also known as deoxynivalenol (DON). This mycotoxin is produced by certain strains of the fungus Fusarium, which is responsible for scab disease in wheat and other cereal grains. When plants are infected with this fungus, the levels of vomitoxin can increase, presenting a significant health risk to both humans and livestock if consumed.

Vomitoxin can lead to reduced feed intake, poor weight gain, and various health issues in animals, making it a critical concern in agronomy and food safety. Detecting and managing the presence of this toxin in agricultural products is essential for maintaining safe crop production and marketability. Measures to prevent scab disease and the resultant production of vomitoxin include crop rotation, selecting resistant wheat varieties, and employing appropriate fungicides.