Sugarcane streak mosaic

Sugarcane streak mosaic is a viral disease caused by the Mastrevirus sacchari. This pathogen belongs to the Geminiviridae family and is characterized by a circular single-stranded DNA genome. It is a systemic plant disease that interferes with the plant's physiological functions, leading to significant physiological stress.

The primary host plant is sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum). While the virus primarily affects cultivated varieties, it can occasionally be hosted by various wild grasses that act as alternative reservoirs, ensuring the survival of the virus during periods when the main crop is not present.

The symptoms are highly distinctive, characterized by fine chlorotic streaks running parallel to the leaf veins. As the infection progresses, these streaks may enlarge, causing a mosaic pattern of yellowing. Heavily infected plants exhibit stunted growth, reduced tillering, and thinner stems, which directly impacts the commercial value of the harvest.

The virus is transmitted by insect vectors, specifically leafhoppers (family Cicadellidae). The insect acquires the virus while feeding on infected plant sap and transmits it to healthy plants. Warm temperatures and high humidity promote both the movement of leafhoppers and the rapid systemic spread of the virus within the crop.

To minimize yield loss, integrated pest management is essential. Key strategies include:

• The use of certified virus-free planting material.
• Rigorous control of grassy weed hosts in and around fields.
• Application of insecticides to manage leafhopper populations.
• Selection and cultivation of resistant or tolerant sugarcane varieties.