Success StoryNew corn disease confirmed in Kentucky



New corn disease confirmed in Kentucky

Author: Kiersten Wise

Planning Unit: Plant Pathology

Major Program: Integrated Plant Pest Management

Outcome: Initial Outcome

The disease Curvularia leaf spot, caused by the fungus Curvularia lunata, was first discovered in the United States in 2017. The disease was observed in several fields in Kentucky in 2018, and laboratory diagnosis confirmed the new presence of this new disease. While the impact of Curvularia leaf spot in Kentucky is not yet known, this disease causes yield loss in tropical areas, and is considered to be one of the most important diseases of corn in China. Curvularia leaf spot can be confused with other foliar corn diseases, making diagnosis difficult. Confirming the presence of the disease is the first step in understanding the longer term impact on yield and disease management in corn.






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