Bakanae is a fungal disease of rice caused by the fungus Gibberella fujikuroi. It's a seed and soil borne disease, meaning the fungus is carried on or inside the seed. This disease can cause significant yield losses in rice crops, including Basmati rice.
Infected rice plants will exhibit several distinctive symptoms:
Excessive height: Infected plants will be much taller than healthy rice plants.
Thin and pale leaves: The leaves will be thin, yellow-green, and appear weak.
Reduced tillering: Infected plants will produce fewer tillers, which are the shoots that grow from the base of the plant and ultimately become rice stalks.
Poor grain development: Infected plants may produce partially filled or empty grains.
Bakanae disease can be a serious problem for Basmati rice farmers, leading to significant yield losses. Here are some key strategies for bakanae management in Basmati:
1. Using disease-free seeds:
This is the most crucial step. Purchase certified seeds that are disease-free to minimize the initial presence of the fungus.
2. Seed treatment with fungicides:
Fungicides can be applied to seeds before planting to kill spores of the fungus.
Effective fungicides for basmati include carbendazim, tebuconazole, or a combination of both.
Always follow the recommended application rates and instructions on the fungicide label.
3. Cultural practices:
Crop rotation with non-rice crops for at least one season helps reduce the inoculum (fungus spores) in the soil.
Proper field sanitation by removing leftover plant debris after harvest can also help reduce the inoculum.
Balanced fertilization practices can improve plant health and resistance to disease.
4. Resistant varieties:
While most Basmati varieties are susceptible to bakanae, some newer varieties with some level of resistance are being developed. Consult with your local agricultural extension service for recommendations on resistant varieties suited to your region.
5. Integrated Pest Management (IPM):
Combining these strategies in an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach provides the most effective and sustainable management of bakanae disease.