Maize crazy top is a viral disease that affects maize plants (corn). It is caused by a specific strain of the Maize Chlorotic Mottle Virus (MCMV), known as the "crazy top" strain. This disease can cause significant yield losses in affected crops.
The name "maize crazy top" comes from the distinctive symptoms it produces in infected plants. Here are some common symptoms associated with this disease:
Abnormal tassel development: Infected maize plants often exhibit abnormal tassel growth. Instead of a normal tassel structure, the tassels can become deformed, stunted, or exhibit excessive branching. The tassels may appear bushy, distorted, or "crazy" in their growth pattern.
Witches' broom-like appearance: The tassels may develop numerous small, leafy shoots, resembling a broom or a brush. These extra shoots can give the tassels a dense, bushy appearance.
Reduced ear development: The disease can also affect ear development, leading to smaller or misshapen ears. In severe cases, the ears may fail to form entirely.
Yellowing and stunting of plants: Infected plants often exhibit general yellowing or chlorosis of the leaves. The growth of infected plants may be stunted compared to healthy plants.
Maize crazy top is primarily spread by insect vectors, particularly leafhoppers. These insects acquire the virus by feeding on infected plants and then transmit it to healthy plants. The disease can also be spread through the use of infected seed.
There is no cure for maize crazy top once a plant is infected. Prevention and control measures are focused on managing the insect vectors and utilizing disease-resistant maize varieties. Practices such as crop rotation, removing infected plants, and controlling weeds can also help reduce the spread of the disease.
3. Crazy top is
an Oomycete
disease caused
by
Sclerophthora
macrospora.
The most common
characteristic of this
disease is proliferation
of the tassel where,
instead of a normal
tassel, a mass of leafy
structures develops
Leaves of
severely
infected plants
may show
chlorotic
striping.
The tassels of
infected plants
do not produce
pollen.
