RED ROT: THE "CANCER OF SUGARCANE"

Red Rot, caused by the fungal pathogen Colletotrichum falcatum , is one of the most devastating diseases affecting sugarcane worldwide. Often referred to as the ”cancer of sugarcane”, this disease leads to severe yield losses, reduced sugar recovery, and economic damage to farmers and the sugar industry. The fungus infects stalks, leaves, and roots, causing characteristic symptoms such as internal reddening, node rot, and leaf wilting. This article provides a detailed overview of the disease, including its symptoms, causes, spread, economic impact, and management strategies . Emphasis is placed on integrated disease management (IDM), combining cultural practices, resistant varieties, chemical treatments, and biological control to mitigate losses. By adopting these measures, sugarcane farmers can minimize the impact of Red Rot and sustain profitable cultivation.