Tar Spot of Corn: A Diagnostic and Methods Guide

• DOI: 10.1094/php-04-22-0033-dg
• Publication Date: 2022-08-01T13:17:50Z
• Authors: José E. Solórzano; C. D. Cruz; Brett E. Arenz; Dean K. Malvick; Nathan M. Kleczewski
• Keywords: tar (computing)

Tar spot of corn is an emerging plant disease in the continental United States and Canada caused by fungal pathogen Phyllachora maydis Maubl. has been known to occur Mexico, Caribbean, Central South America since early mid-1900s. In 2015, it was reported for first time States. Since that time, tar spread across corn-producing areas with epidemics as recent 2021 resulting significant yield losses. Although affect over a century Americas, biology pathogen, etiology, epidemiology are not well understood. Additionally, symptoms signs resemble other foliar diseases abiotic disorders corn, which may lead misdiagnosis. this paper, we provide brief description current knowledge about including taxonomy, host range, signs, specimen storage, pathogenicity testing, diagnostic protocols, geographic distribution. This information will be useful diagnosticians, researchers, professionals working disease.