Maize lethal necrosis disease

Maize lethal necrosis disease (MLND) is a viral disease that affects maize crops. It is caused by a combination of two viruses, the Maize chlorotic mottle virus (MCMV) and any of the cereal viruses in the Potyviridae family, such as Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV), Wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV), or Johnsongrass mosaic virus (JGMV). The disease is characterized by severe mottling of the leaves, leading to necrosis and the eventual death of the plant.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of MLND include severe mottling of the leaves, necrosis, and the eventual death of the plant. The disease can cause significant yield losses in maize crops, and in severe cases, can lead to total crop failure.

Causes[edit | edit source]

MLND is caused by a combination of two viruses, the Maize chlorotic mottle virus (MCMV) and any of the cereal viruses in the Potyviridae family. The disease is spread by insect vectors, including thrips, aphids, and leaf beetles.

Management[edit | edit source]

Management of MLND involves the use of resistant maize varieties, good agricultural practices, and control of insect vectors. Crop rotation and intercropping with non-host plants can also help to reduce the incidence of the disease.

Impact[edit | edit source]

MLND has a significant impact on maize production, particularly in Africa where the disease has been reported in several countries including Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. The disease can cause significant yield losses and in severe cases, can lead to total crop failure.

See also[edit | edit source]

Maize lethal necrosis disease Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? Need help finding a doctor or specialist anywhere in the world? Explore our world directory. WikiMD's DocFinder can assist you in locating millions of physicians.	Medical Knowledge Access the latest research - Most recent articles Ongoing trials.