Understanding & Managing Maize Lethal Necrosis Disease (MLND) in Kenya

Abstract

The Maize lethal necrosis disease involves synergism between two viruses namely Maize Chlorotic Mottle Virus (MCMV), and any of several potyviruses including Maize Dwarf Mosaic Virus (MDMV), Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus (WSMV) and Sugarcane Mosaic Virus (SCMV). Maize Chlorotic Mottle Virus was first reported in Peru in 1973 (Hebert and Castillo, 1973) where it was found to cause losses of 10 and 15% in floury and sweet corn varieties. The virus is geographically restricted and is associated with soil. In experimental plots, inoculated plant yields were reduced by up to 59% (Castillo-Loayza, 1977). In Kansas crop losses due to Corn Lethal Necrosis (synonym for MLND) were estimated to be between 50% to 90% (Uyemoto et al., 1980; Niblett and Claflin, 1978) depending on the variety of maize and the season of the year. The disease has also been reported in China. Maize Lethal Necrosis Disease poses a major challenge to maize production in regions where it has been reported.