Identification of Ustilago cynodontis associated with Smut disease in Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon)

Abstract

Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon) is an important warm-season perennial turf and forage grass. The productivity of the grass depends on the variety/cultivar and various climatic factors. The grass is prone to various diseases, among them; smut is one of the important diseases causing severe effects on its productivity and cultivation. The present study was undertaken to identify the causal agent of smut associated with smut disease in Bermuda grass. The disease incidence in the lawns was more and had affected the inflorescence of the grass. The study identified Ustilago cynodontis associated with this disease in grass. Future prospects of the disease are, confirmation through molecular approaches, impact on the performance of growth, survival, and competitiveness of the clonal rhizomatous perennial grass and management using organic approaches.