DOI: https://doi.org/10.21276/AATCCReview.2025.13.02.01

Abstract

Red rot disease, of sugarcane caused by Colletotrichum falcatum, poses a significant
threat to sugarcane cultivation in India, particularly in the states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.
This disease has been responsible for the elimination of several popular sugarcane varieties,
leading to substantial reductions in cane production and productivity. Incidence rates of red
rot disease have been reported to range from 30% to 50% within India, and trace to 50%
across various cane-growing regions globally. The impact of this disease extends to crucial
cane parameters, including cane weight, brix, pol, sucrose content, and purity, which
collectively contribute to significant economic losses. Extensive studies have been conducted
to understand the morphological characteristics and pathogenic behavior of Colletotrichum
falcatum. In addition, various control methods have been tested both in-vitro and in-vivo to
mitigate the disease. These methods include chemical treatments, botanical approaches,
biological controls, and heat therapy. Each of these control strategies has been assessed for
their effectiveness in reducing disease incidence and severity. Furthermore, research has
explored the influence of intercropping and crop rotation on red rot disease and associated
cane parameters. The role of micronutrients, temperature, and pH value in influencing disease
incidence and severity has also been a focal point of study. Overall, the concerted efforts of
researchers in studying various aspects of red rot disease and implementing diverse control
methods aim to enhance the resilience of sugarcane varieties against this detrimental
pathogen. The ongoing evaluation of resistant varieties, coupled with optimized agricultural
practices and environmental management, holds promise for sustaining sugarcane production
and minimizing the losses caused by red rot disease in India and other affected regions. The
study faced challenges from the high variability of Colletotrichum falcatum and difficulty in
standardizing control methods across regions. It contributed by advancing red rot pathology
research, evaluating diverse control strategies, and promoting resistant varieties for
sustainable management.

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