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<p>Red rot, caused by <i>Colletotrichum falcatum</i> Went, is among the oldest and most devastating fungal diseases of sugarcane, responsible for severe yield losses across major sugarcane-growing regions, particularly in Asia. The disease primarily affects the stalk, leading to tissue disintegration and rendering the cane unfit for processing. However, the pathogen can also infect the leaf midrib, producing characteristic lesions that serve as secondary sources of inoculum and contribute to the spread of aerial disease and the development of epidemics. In recent years, several publications have attributed midrib lesions to other <i>Colletotrichum</i> or <i>Fusarium</i> species, often without comprehensive pathogenicity studies or a clear understanding of red rot aetiology. Although molecular markers were employed in these studies, misinterpretation of genetic data and inadequate experimental validation have led to erroneous conclusions. The frequent misidentification of midrib lesions as red rot, particularly in non-endemic regions, has further complicated the disease landscape. This article critically revisits these claims, clarifies the biology and aetiology of midrib lesions associated with red rot, and provides guidance for researchers to ensure accurate diagnosis and scientific integrity in future investigations.</p>

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Midrib Lesions in Sugarcane: Clarifying Misconceptions in the Aetiology of Red rot Disease

  • 期刊论文

  • 发表日期：

    2026年2月18日

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  • R. Viswanathan,
  • Chandramani Raj

摘要

Red rot, caused by Colletotrichum falcatum Went, is among the oldest and most devastating fungal diseases of sugarcane, responsible for severe yield losses across major sugarcane-growing regions, particularly in Asia. The disease primarily affects the stalk, leading to tissue disintegration and rendering the cane unfit for processing. However, the pathogen can also infect the leaf midrib, producing characteristic lesions that serve as secondary sources of inoculum and contribute to the spread of aerial disease and the development of epidemics. In recent years, several publications have attributed midrib lesions to other Colletotrichum or Fusarium species, often without comprehensive pathogenicity studies or a clear understanding of red rot aetiology. Although molecular markers were employed in these studies, misinterpretation of genetic data and inadequate experimental validation have led to erroneous conclusions. The frequent misidentification of midrib lesions as red rot, particularly in non-endemic regions, has further complicated the disease landscape. This article critically revisits these claims, clarifies the biology and aetiology of midrib lesions associated with red rot, and provides guidance for researchers to ensure accurate diagnosis and scientific integrity in future investigations.