Oklahoma and Missouri have reported the first cases of corn stunt disease, a condition that stunts corn growth and affects yield. This disease, previously found in Southern states and South America, is spread by corn leafhoppers carrying pathogens. It causes corn to remain below 5 feet tall and disrupts ear development, leading to significant yield losses, as seen in Argentina where losses ranged from 5% to 100% last season.
Corn leafhoppers, are tiny insects recognizable by dark spots, they transmit the disease through their feeding.
Symptoms, such as stunted growth and reddened leaves, appear about 30 days after infestation. Experts are monitoring the fields to gauge the impact on yields and suggest early planting as a preventive measure, as insecticides are ineffective once symptoms develop.
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