List of maize diseases

List of Maize Diseases refers to the various pathological conditions that affect maize (Zea mays), a major staple crop grown worldwide. Maize diseases can be caused by a variety of pathogens including fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes. These diseases can significantly impact maize yield and quality. Effective management of maize diseases involves accurate diagnosis, understanding the life cycle of the pathogens, and implementing integrated disease management strategies.

Fungal Diseases

Fungal pathogens are among the most common causes of maize diseases. They can affect the plant at various stages of growth, from seedling to maturity.

Leaf Blights and Spots

• Northern Corn Leaf Blight (Setosphaeria turcica)
• Southern Corn Leaf Blight (Cochliobolus heterostrophus)
• Gray Leaf Spot (Cercospora zeae-maydis)
• Common Rust (Puccinia sorghi)
• Southern Rust (Puccinia polysora)

Stalk and Ear Rots

• Fusarium Stalk Rot (Fusarium verticillioides)
• Anthracnose Stalk Rot (Colletotrichum graminicola)
• Gibberella Ear Rot (Fusarium graminearum)
• Aspergillus Ear Rot (Aspergillus flavus)

Seedling Diseases

• Pythium Seedling Blight (Pythium spp.)
• Rhizoctonia Seedling Blight (Rhizoctonia solani)

Bacterial Diseases

Bacterial diseases in maize are less common than fungal diseases but can cause significant damage under favorable conditions.

• Goss's Wilt (Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. nebraskensis)
• Stewart's Wilt (Pantoea stewartii)

Viral Diseases

Viral diseases can spread rapidly through maize fields, especially when vector populations, such as aphids and leafhoppers, are high.

• Maize Dwarf Mosaic Virus (MDMV)
• Maize Streak Virus (MSV)

Nematode Diseases

Nematodes are microscopic worms that attack maize roots, reducing the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients.

• Corn Cyst Nematode (Heterodera zeae)
• Root-knot Nematode (Meloidogyne spp.)

Management

Management of maize diseases involves a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical strategies. Crop rotation, resistant varieties, timely planting, and proper fertilization can reduce the incidence of many diseases. Biological control agents and fungicides may be used when necessary to manage disease outbreaks.

See Also

• Plant Pathology
• Crop Rotation
• Integrated Pest Management