White leaf stripe of sugarcane

Mastrevirus saccharumalbusvenae is a viral pathogen recognized as the causative agent of the white leaf stripe disease in sugarcane. Classified within the Geminiviridae family, this virus utilizes a single-stranded DNA genome to interfere with the plant's physiological functions, severely impacting agricultural yield and sugar quality.

The primary host for this disease is cultivated sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum). Additionally, various wild grasses and alternative hosts in the surrounding ecosystem may serve as reservoirs for the virus, facilitating its persistence and transmission throughout the agricultural season.

Clinical symptoms are characterized by the appearance of narrow, pale yellow or white longitudinal stripes on the leaf blades. In advanced stages of infection, these symptoms can lead to stunted growth of the entire plant, reduced stalk thickness, and a significant reduction in sucrose content within the harvestable stalks.

The transmission mechanism of Mastrevirus saccharumalbusvenae is primarily mediated by insect vectors, specifically leafhoppers (Cicadellidae). These insects acquire the virus while feeding on infected plants and subsequently transmit it to healthy ones, with the rate of spread being highly dependent on seasonal population dynamics of the vectors.

Successful management of the disease involves a strategic integrated pest and disease management approach:

• Sourcing and planting of certified virus-free setts.
• Deployment of resistant or tolerant sugarcane varieties if available.
• Implementation of rigorous vector control programs using targeted insecticides.
• Elimination of alternative host weeds from field margins to reduce viral reservoirs.
• Systematic roguing of infected plants to limit secondary spread within the plantation.