Corn With High Plains Virus: Understanding the Disease and Its Effects on Corn Yield
If you're a farmer or involved in agriculture, you know how devastating crop diseases can be. One such disease that's been causing concern among corn growers is the Corn With High Plains Virus (CwHPV). This virus has been observed in numerous states in the United States, including Colorado, Texas, Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, and South Dakota. In this article, we'll take a closer look at CwHPV, its symptoms, and what can be done to mitigate its impact on corn yield.
What Is Corn With High Plains Virus?
Corn With High Plains Virus is a disease caused by the Maize rayado fino virus (MRFV), which belongs to the Rhabdoviridae family. The first outbreak of this disease was reported in Colorado in 1996. Since then, it has spread to other states, with Texas being the most affected state. CwHPV is transmitted by the leafhopper, Dalbulus maidis, which feeds on corn plants. These insects acquire the virus while feeding on infected plants and then transmit it to healthy plants while feeding on them.
Symptoms of Corn With High Plains Virus
The symptoms of CwHPV are similar to those of other viral diseases in corn. The initial symptoms include yellowing and curling of leaves, stunting of plants, and necrosis of the growing points. As the disease progresses, the leaves turn brown, and the plant dies prematurely. In some cases, the disease may not show any visible symptoms, making it difficult to detect. The severity of the disease depends on various factors such as temperature, humidity, and genetics of the corn plant.
Impact of Corn With High Plains Virus on Corn Yield
The impact of CwHPV on corn yield can be significant. Infected plants produce fewer ears of corn, and the ears are often undersized. The quality of the corn is also compromised due to reduced sugar content and increased levels of nitrates. The yield losses due to CwHPV vary from year to year and can range from 30% to 80%. This loss can have a significant economic impact on farmers who rely on corn for their livelihood.
Management of Corn With High Plains Virus
Preventing the spread of CwHPV requires a combination of cultural and chemical control strategies. Here are some tips to manage CwHPV:
- Plant resistant varieties: Planting corn varieties that are resistant to CwHPV is the best way to prevent the disease. Resistant varieties have been developed by plant breeders and are available in the market.
- Control leafhoppers: Controlling the population of leafhoppers is critical in preventing the spread of CwHPV. Using insecticides is an effective way to control these insects.
- Practice crop rotation: Crop rotation can help reduce the buildup of leafhopper populations. Avoid planting corn in fields where the disease has occurred in the past.
- Monitor fields regularly: Regular scouting of fields can help detect the disease early and prevent its spread.
- Clean equipment: Equipment used in infected fields should be cleaned thoroughly before being used in uninfected fields.
Corn With High Plains Virus is an increasingly common disease that's affecting corn yields in several states in the United States. While there's no cure for the disease, managing it requires a combination of cultural and chemical control strategies. Farmers can prevent the spread of the disease by planting resistant varieties, controlling leafhoppers, practicing crop rotation, monitoring fields regularly, and cleaning equipment. By taking these measures, farmers can minimize the economic impact of the disease and maintain high yields.
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