Abstract: In this paper, denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) was used to research the community composition of molds in corn grains stored for different years at different spatial locations in the grain depot. The aim of this investigation was to understand the pattern of mold contamination during grain storage for the purpose of reducing mold and mycotoxin contamination and improving the safety of grains. The results revealed that Penicillium, Aspergillus and Mucor were the main molds found in stored corn. The mold community composition was closely correlated with storage duration but less correlated with spatial location in the depot. The corn samples stored for 1 year and 3 years showed great differences in mold community composition, while storage for 2 years were in a period of transition. The results of this study can provide a theoretical basis and useful data to construct an accurate model for predicting mold communities in stored grain.

Key words: corn, molds, denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE)