Maize dwarf mosaic
Maize dwarf mosaic virus
What is Maize dwarf mosaic virus (MDMV)?
Maize dwarf mosaic virus (MDMV) is a viral disease that affects maize (corn) plants. It belongs to the family Potyviridae and the genus Potyvirus. Infected plants are stunted, produce numerous tillers, and have poor seed sets. They may also exhibit smaller ears and fewer kernels, resulting in decreased yields.
How does Maize dwarf mosaic virus (MDMV) occur?
Maize dwarf mosaic virus (MDMV) reproduces by entering maize plant cells and making copies of itself. It uses the plant's resources to produce new virus particles. These particles then spread to other plant cells or other plants through aphids, contaminated tools, or plant debris. As the virus continues to multiply, it causes symptoms like yellow streaks on leaves and stunted growth in infected maize plants. This can result in smaller ears and fewer kernels, leading to lower yields.
Symptoms
1 - Impact on Corn Plants
Maize dwarf mosaic virus (MDMV) causes stunted growth, leaf yellowing or mosaic patterns, reduced vigor, lower yields, smaller ears, fewer kernels, and increased susceptibility to ear rot and stalk rot in plants.
2 - Soil Health
MDMV indirectly affects soil health by reducing plant growth, leading to decreased organic matter inputs and potential alterations in nutrient cycling patterns. These long-term effects can impact soil fertility and nutrient availability, further impacting the overall health and productivity of the soil.
Solutions
1 - Prevention
1. Eliminating local populations of Johnson grass, a known reservoir for (MDMV), can help reduce the risk of MDMV infection. 2. Choose maize varieties that are resistant to MDMV to minimize the risk of infection. 3. Implement measures to control aphid populations, such as using insecticides or introducing natural predators, to reduce the spread of MDMV. 4. Rotate maize with non-host crops to break the disease cycle and reduce the buildup of MDMV in the soil.
2 - Treatment
1. There are no direct treatments for MDMV-infected plants once they are infected. Therefore, prevention is crucial. 2. Maintain optimal plant nutrition, irrigation, and overall plant health to enhance resistance against MDMV and minimize its impact. 3. Promptly identify and remove infected plants to prevent the spread of MDMV to healthy plants. 4. Regularly monitor aphid populations and implement control measures needed to reduce virus transmission. By employing preventive measures and maintaining healthy plants, the risk of MDMV infection can be significantly reduced.
