Corn stunt disease

Corn stunt disease is a significant plant disease that affects maize crops, also known as corn. It is caused by the bacterium Spiroplasma kunkelii, which is transmitted by the insect vector Dalbulus maidis, commonly known as the corn leafhopper.

Symptoms

The symptoms of corn stunt disease include stunting, chlorosis, and proliferation of tillers or "suckers". The leaves of infected plants often show a pattern of striping or mottling. In severe cases, the disease can lead to complete loss of the ear, resulting in significant yield losses.

Transmission

The disease is transmitted by the corn leafhopper, which acquires the bacterium by feeding on infected plants. The bacterium multiplies in the insect's gut and is then transmitted to healthy plants when the insect feeds again. The disease can also be spread through the use of infected seed.

Management

Management of corn stunt disease involves a combination of strategies, including the use of resistant varieties, insecticide application to control the leafhopper population, and crop rotation to break the disease cycle. In some regions, biological control methods such as the use of natural enemies of the leafhopper are also employed.

Impact

Corn stunt disease is a major problem in many corn-growing regions of the world, particularly in the tropics and subtropics. It can cause significant yield losses, and in severe cases, can lead to total crop failure. The disease is particularly problematic in areas where continuous corn cropping is practiced, as this allows the disease to build up in the soil.

See also

• List of maize diseases
• Plant pathology
• Crop rotation