Fusarium blight in corn is characterized by which symptom?

Fusarium blight in corn is characterized by which symptom?

• A. Necrotic leaf spots
• B. Completely rotted roots
• C. Wilting at the stem base
• D. Overdevelopment of leaves

Answer: (B)

Fusarium blight in corn primarily manifests through wilting symptoms, particularly at the stem base. This symptom occurs because the pathogen affects the vascular system of the plant, leading to water and nutrient transport disruption. The wilting is a response of the corn plant to the stress caused by this infection, as it struggles to maintain hydration and support following the pathogen's interference.

While completely rotted roots can be a sign of various root diseases, Fusarium blight is more accurately identified by its characteristic wilting, rather than by the specific status of the roots. Hence, focusing on wilting at the stem base provides a more direct correlation to the Fusarium pathogens at play in this blight. Understanding these symptoms helps in identifying Fusarium blight accurately and distinguishes it from other diseases that may present with different symptoms or indicate root rot rather than vascular compromise.