Stackburn of rice

Stackburn of rice is a significant fungal disease caused by the pathogen Trichoconiella padwickii. This disease is known to affect rice crops worldwide, causing substantial economic losses by reducing both the yield and the quality of the harvested grain.

The primary host for this pathogen is rice, although it can occasionally be found on other grass species. The fungus is seed-borne, meaning that infected seeds serve as the primary source of inoculum when planted in the field, leading to seedling blight and systemic infection as the plant matures.

Disease symptoms are manifested as distinct spots on the leaves and glumes. These spots typically feature a light-colored or straw-colored center surrounded by a dark-brown or black margin. In advanced stages of infection, the kernels become discolored and may be covered with a black, sooty fungal growth, which gives the disease its common name.

High humidity levels and warm temperatures are the critical environmental factors that trigger the development and dispersal of Trichoconiella padwickii. Rainfall during the grain-filling stage creates ideal conditions for the spores to germinate and infect the healthy glumes, leading to the characteristic stackburn effect.

Effective management of stackburn requires an integrated approach to disease control. Key strategies include:

• treating seeds with systemic fungicides;
• ensuring proper drainage of fields during susceptible growth stages;
• removing crop residues to eliminate overwintering sources of the fungus;
• selecting certified, disease-free seed lots for planting.