A review of yield losses caused by Australian and selected exotic sugarcane diseases : SRDC final report BS1725

Abstract

Yield loss studies of Australian endemic diseases, and those exotic diseases posing the greatest threat to production in Australia, are reviewed. There is a need for much research particularly in relating disease intensity with yield and in investigating the effect of varietal resistance on this relationship. It is suggested that initial studies begin with yellow spot and rust, and should include sugarcane bacilliform virus and yellow leaf syndrome when techniques for handling these diseases improve. Priorities for further research should be reviewed at the conclusion of the initial yield loss research. The effect of the important exotic disease, smut, has been well researched overseas.