Causal Agent: 

Fungus (Curvularia lunata)

Characteristic Symptoms:
 
Initial symptoms of the the disease include small necrotic spots with a light colored halo.
   
Lesions are about 0.5 cm in diameter when fully developed.
   
Severe infection can cause yellowing of the whole leaf.
   
Conditions for Disease Development:
 
The disease is prevalent in hot, humid areas.
   
Management and Control:
 
Use resistant varieties, if available.
   
Follow proper cultural management.
   
Apply fungicides such as  mancozeb (e.g. Dithane®, Manzate®), chlorothalonil (e.g. Daconil®) or maneb (eg. Maneb®)
   
 
   

References

The CIMMYT Maize Program. 2003. Maize Diseases: A Guide for Field Identification. 4th edition. Mexico, D.F.: International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT).

To view other diseases,  click here.

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