Charbon commun, parasite du maïs, au Moulon

Common smut in maize at the experimental farm in Le Moulon, in the Paris region. This disease is caused by the parasitic fungus ustilago maydis. This fungus is edible. When young, it is eaten in Mexico, where it is known by the name "huitlacoche". Scientists at the Quantitative Genetics and Evolution unit in Le Moulon are studying the genetic, epigenetic and molecular control of qualitative and quantitative characteristics and their importance in the adaptation and evolutionary history of plant species. They optimise selection processes based on target characteristics (such as growth, development and adaptation), taking advantage of breakthroughs in genomics and genetic resources, and allowing for changes in environmental conditions and farming methods.