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Rice Sheath Rot: An Emerging Ubiquitous Destructive Disease Complex
Vincent de P Bigirimana1, Gia K H Hua2, Obedi I Nyamangyoku3
1Laboratory of Phytopathology, Department of Crop Protection, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University Ghent, Belgium ; Department of Crop Science, School of Agriculture, Rural Development and Agricultural Economics, College of Agriculture, Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, University of Rwanda Musanze, Rwanda.
Rice sheath rot disease, caused by pathogens like Sarocladium oryzae, Fusarium, and Pseudomonas, is an emerging threat causing significant yield loss. Understanding these pathogens is crucial for effective disease management and global rice production.
Area of Science:
- Plant Pathology
- Agricultural Science
- Microbiology
Background:
- Rice sheath rot disease, first reported a century ago in Taiwan, is caused by Sarocladium oryzae and other pathogens.
- Symptoms include sheath rot, grain discoloration, chaffiness, and sterility, leading to substantial yield losses up to 85% globally.
- The disease is seed-transmitted and considered an emerging threat to rice production worldwide.
Purpose of the Study:
- To enhance understanding of the etiology of rice sheath rot disease.
- To review the three most reported pathogens: Sarocladium oryzae, Fusarium fujikuroi complex, and Pseudomonas fuscovaginae.
- To discuss causal agents, pathogenicity, pathogen interactions, epidemiology, distribution, and control strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on rice sheath rot pathogens.
- Analysis of etiological factors, pathogenicity determinants, and epidemiological data.
- Synthesis of information on disease control options.
Main Results:
- Identified Sarocladium oryzae, Fusarium fujikuroi complex, and Pseudomonas fuscovaginae as key pathogens.
- Highlighted the role of phytotoxins in disease development and symptom expression.
- Confirmed seed transmission and global prevalence of the disease.
Conclusions:
- Effective management requires a comprehensive understanding of the diverse pathogens involved.
- Further research into pathogen interactions and novel control strategies is essential.
- Addressing this emerging threat is critical for ensuring global food security.
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