Corn Smut
Ustilago maydis
Corn Smut, Huitlacoche (Mex)
Maisbrand, Maisbeulenbrand (Ustilago maydis) - hms(1)
by Hans-Martin Scheibner. CC BY-SA 3.0
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Ustilago maydis is a pathogenic fungal plant disease commonly called corn smut. It mainly affects crop plants such as maize (corn), Zea mays. Infection leads to the production of abnormal growths termed galls, these appear on any above-ground part of the plant and are also called huitlacoche in Mexico, where they are considered a delicacy and consumed as food.
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Identification
Some cause small yellow spots on leaves. Some completely distort and stunt the plant's growth. Many causes swelling of certain tissues that when opened are shown to be filled with brown-black spores.
Growth factors
Plant wounds. Hot and dry weather.
Symptoms
Formation of abnormal growths (galls) on above-ground parts.
Lifecycle
The spores germinate in the spring and infect young plants through wounds. The fungi multiply inside areas of plants causing them to swell. These swellings will eventually dry out and burst open releasing massive amounts of black spores that infect other hosts.
Prevention
Keeping good hygiene around plants e.g. removing fallen leaves and burning infected materials. Check the area for signs of previous smut infection. Making sure that plants do not become too dry in hot weather. Keep good air circulation around and through plants. Keep damage to plants a minimum to reduce infection points.
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