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Source– This post on Foot Rot Disease has been created based on the article “A new biocontrol agent to manage ‘foot rot’ disease in Basmati crop: Why this matters” published in “The Indian Express” on 11th May 2024.
Why in the news?
Ludhiana’s Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has developed a biocontrol agent, Trichoderma asperellum, to combat foot rot disease in Basmati rice varieties. Foot rot is a prevalent issue that reduces yields and threatens the state’s export prospects.
About Foot Rot Disease
| Aspects | Description |
| What is it? | Foot Rot is a fungal disease affecting Basmati rice, most vulnerable at the seedling stage and potentially after transplantation if infected seedlings are used. |
| Causal Agent | The disease is caused by the fungus Fusarium verticillioides. It is both soil and seed-borne. It spreads through the plant’s roots and colonizes the stem base. |
| Symptoms | Infected seedlings initially turn pale yellow, then elongate, dry up, and often die. |
| Current Treatment Methods | a) Biological: Seedlings are treated with Trichoderma harzianum before sowing and transplantation to prevent fungal growth. Note: It is a biocontrol agent that provides an eco-friendly alternative to conventional pesticides, helping in disease management while reducing environmental impact. b) Chemical: Seeds are treated with fungicides such as Sprint 75 WS (a combination of carbendazim and mancozeb) before sowing. However, these chemical treatments can negatively affect the soil and pose toxicity risks to consumers. |
| Regulatory Action | The fungicide carbendazim has been banned in Punjab due to concerns over high residue levels left in crops. |
UPSC Syllabus: Environment
