'Foot Rot' or 'Bakanae' Disease

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Context

Scientists has created a biocontrol agent called Trichoderma asperellum to help Punjab farmers combat the 'foot rot' or 'bakanae' disease, which commonly affects Basmati rice crops. This agent has been registered with the Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIBRC).

Understanding Foot Rot

Foot rot is a fungal disease that primarily affects Basmati rice crops during the seedling stage but can also infect plants after transplantation.
It is caused by the Fusarium verticillioides fungus, which spreads through the roots and eventually colonizes the stem base.
Infected seedlings exhibit symptoms such as turning pale yellow, elongation, drying up, and eventual death.
Current Management Practices: Currently, farmers treat seedlings with Trichoderma harzianum before sowing and transplantation. Additionally, seeds are treated with chemical fungicides like Sprint 75 WS (carbendazim + mancozeb) before sowing. However, these chemical treatments pose risks to soil health and can leave toxic residues in rice consumed by consumers.

Fact Box: Trichoderma asperellum

Trichoderma asperellum, offers an eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. This biocontrol agent aids in disease management while minimizing environmental harm.
It provides farmers with a non-chemical solution to tackle foot rot and protect their Basmati rice crops.

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