Biology and Management of Sugarcane Diseases

INVESTIGATOR: Hoy, J. W.

PERFORMING INSTITUTION:
Plant Pathology & Crop Physiology
Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, Louisiana 70803

NON-TECHNICAL SUMMARY: Diseases are a significant constraint to productivity and profitability of the Louisiana sugarcane industry. This project will increase understanding of the biology of sugarcane diseases and develop improved, cost-effective management practices.

OBJECTIVES: 1. To evaluate resistance to diseases as part of the sugarcane variety development program. 2. To gain an understanding of the molecular basis of resistance to leaf scald and investigate molecular markers for resistance. 3. To evaluate the impact of common rust and develop appropriate management practices. 4. To evaluate the impact of yellow leaf and develop appropriate management practices. 5. To minimize the impact of ratoon stunting disease through healthy seedcane programs. 6. To provide support for production of certified seedcane for sugarcane farmers. 7. To study changes in the soil microbial community resulting from sugarcane monoculture. 8. To increase understanding of the biology of sugarcane diseases and improve management practices.

APPROACH: A blend of applied and basic research utilizing laboratory, greenhouse, and field experimentation will address the diseases affecting sugarcane in Louisiana. Conventional selection for disease resistance will require field and greenhouse inoculated experiments. Efforts will be initiated to evaluate the molecular basis of resistance to leaf scald and develop molecular markers for resistance. The effects of rust and yellow leaf on yield will be evaluated in field experiments. Fungicides will be evaluated for rust control. Support will be provided for a certified, healthy seedcane program to control systemic diseases, including yellow leaf, ratoon stunting disease, leaf scald, mosaic, and smut. DNA-based comparisons will be conducted on microbial communities in soils with and without a recent history of sugarcane cultivation.

KEYWORDS: plant pathology; sugarcane; disease management; disease resistance; epidemiology; crop loss assessment; ecology; molecular biology; differential gene expression

PROJECT CONTACT:
Name: Hoy, J. W.
Phone: 225-578-1392
Fax: 225-578-1415
Email: jhoy@agctr.lsu.edu  

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