Sugarcane Whip Smut: A Comprehensive Review of Pathogen Biology, Epidemiology, and Control Measures

Abstract

Sugarcane whip smut, caused by the biotrophic fungus Sporisorium scitamineum, poses a significant threat to global sugarcane production, leading to yield losses of 10–50% or more and substantial reductions in sucrose content. This comprehensive review synthesizes current knowledge on the pathogen’s biology, epidemiology, and control measures. The fungus undergoes a complex life cycle involving diploid teliospores, haploid sporidia, and dikaryotic mycelia, with infection primarily occurring through buds and meristematic tissues under warm (25–30°C) and humid conditions. Whip smut is spread via windborne teliospores and contaminated planting material, with high spore concentrations exacerbating disease severity. Epidemiological factors, including environmental conditions, cultivar susceptibility, and cultural practices, significantly influence disease dynamics. Economically, whip smut reduces crop quality and increases production costs, impacting growers, sugar mills, and related industries. Management strategies encompass cultural practices (rouging, hot water treatment), resistant cultivars, chemical fungicides (tebuconazole, azoxystrobin), and biological controls (Trichoderma spp., plant extracts). Integrated pest management, quarantine programs, and sanitation measures are critical for sustainable disease control. This review highlights the need for continued research into molecular host pathogen interactions and eco-friendly control methods to mitigate the global impact of whip smut on sugarcane production.