False smut of rice: Epidemiology, impact, and management strategies

AbstractRice is a global staple food for more than half of the world's population. It is the third most important crop grown after Wheat and Maize in the world. It is cultivated in more than 100 countries and is a significant component of the daily diet in many Asian countries. China, India, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Indonesia, Thailand, Philippines, Brazil, Japan, Myanmar, Cambodia, Pakistan, and the United States are the major rice-producing countries in the world. Rice is rich in carbohydrates and provides a good amount of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a major crop that helps in combating malnutrition. India is the second largest producer of Rice after China. The livelihood of many farmers depends on Rice production. Over the period, many diseases have been identified that attack the Rice crop and significantly affect its yield. False smut is one of those diseases that affects both yield and grain quality of rice. This disease leads to a reduction in the weight of grains and reduces seed germination percentage by 35%. On average, the yield loss due to disease under favourable conditions is up to 40%. This article explores the prevalence of False smut disease in Rice, its impact on crop production, and suitable management practices to control the disease and prevent yield loss.