Abstract
The common smut of maize (corn smut, Ustilago maydis /DC/ Corda) can cause large economic losses in susceptible sweet corn hybrids as well. The protection against this pathogen is fundamentally based on prevention. Many methods to control corn smut have been recommended or evaluated, including crop rotation, sanitation, seed treatments, modification of fertility, and biological control. In spite of these frequently mentioned control strategies, the host resistance seems to be the only effective method to manage common smut in those areas where Ustilago maydis is prevalent.
Highlights
Ustilago maydis, the causal agent of corn smut disease, is a biotrophic basidiomycete parasite on maize (Zea mays) and its natural ancestor teosinte species
About four days after penetration, the formation of hypertrophic host cells and tumor development are induced, while the fungal hyphae start proliferating in the apoplastic spaces that develop as a consequence of cell wall degradation and induced host cells enlargement (Doehlemann et al 2008)
A distinctive symptom of Ustilago maydis infection was the formation of plant tumors
Summary
The causal agent of corn smut disease, is a biotrophic basidiomycete parasite on maize (Zea mays) and its natural ancestor teosinte species. It can induce the formation of tumors on all aerial organs (Banuett 1995) resulting stunted growth and yield losses (Martinez-Espinoza et al 2002). Smut galls consist of fungal and host tissues. Ear development on infected plants may be impaired depending on the number, size and location of smut galls (Bojanowski 1969). Upon host cells and concomitant with tumor development the fungal proliferation is initiated. About four days after penetration, the formation of hypertrophic host cells and tumor development are induced, while the fungal hyphae start proliferating in the apoplastic spaces that develop as a consequence of cell wall degradation and induced host cells enlargement (Doehlemann et al 2008)
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