Effect of provenance on seed-borne Mycoflora, germination and seedling disease incidence on Khaya Senegalensis seeds in Ghana

Seed provenance is an important component determining seed quality in forest restorations. Collection of seeds from diseased-free agro-ecological zones for reforestation programs in Ghana is key. To contribute to knowledge, a research was conducted to assess the effect of provenance on seed-borne mycoflora prevalence, germination and initial seedling disease incidence of Khaya Senegalensis seeds in three agro-ecological zones of Ghana. Four seed-borne fungi in three genera namely Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, Colletotrichum sp. and Penicillium sp. were isolated from Khaya Senegalensis seeds collected from the three different provenances namely Deciduous forest, Transitional and Guinea Savannah zones. Total seed-borne mycoflora infections on Khaya Senegalensis varied significantly (p<0.05) between provenances. Transitional and Deciduous zones recorded equal highest incidence of 100.0% total seed-borne mycoflora infections whilst seeds from the Guinea Savannah zone recorded the least total seed-borne mycoflora infection of 58.3%. Significant differences (p<0.05) were observed between provenances with respect to seed germination. Seeds from Guinea Savannah zone recorded the highest (73.7%) whilst the least percentage (16.3%) germination was observed in seeds sourced from the Deciduous forest zone. There were no significant difference (p<0.05) for percent seedling disease incidence amongst provenances. However, the highest (20.0 %) seedling disease incidence was recorded in seeds sourced from Transitional zone whilst the least (12.5%) recorded in seeds from the Deciduous Forest zone. Provenance has significant effect on seed-borne mycoflora prevalence and seed germination. It is recommended that seeds be collected from provenances with low incidence of seed-borne mycoflora to enhance high seed germination for reforestation programs.