Plant Disease

High Severity

Maize Lethal Necrosis (MLN)

Affects: Maize · Year-round in warm climates; higher incidence during dry seasons when thrips populations peak

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Causal Organism

Maize Chlorotic Mottle Virus (MCMV) + Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus or other potyviruses — complex interaction

Symptoms

Severe chlorosis (yellowing) starting from leaf edges and moving inward. Necrosis of all leaves, including husks. Complete plant death before grain fill. Cobs are empty or poorly filled.

Prevention

Use MLN-resistant varieties (available from seed companies in affected regions). Control thrips and aphids (virus vectors) with insecticides. Remove and destroy infected plants early. Crop-free periods between maize seasons in endemic areas.

Season Risk: Year-round in warm climates; higher incidence during dry seasons when thrips populations peak

Treatment

No chemical cure for virus diseases. Focus on vector control with thiamethoxam or imidacloprid seed treatment + foliar sprays. Immediate removal of infected plants is critical.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is MLN present in India?
MLN was detected in parts of northeast India (Manipur, Meghalaya) from 2017 onwards. KrishiAI tracks disease incidence maps — farmers in at-risk districts receive alerts.

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Affected Crops

Maize Farming Guide →

Related Diseases

Fall Armyworm (FAW) →