Symptom :

• The entire inflorescence, except the rachis, is replaced by masses of smut spores.
• These black teliospores often are blown away by the wind, leaving only the bare rachis and remnants of other floral structures.

LIFE CYCLE

Management:

• Treat the seed with Vitavax @ 2g/kg seed before sowing.
• Burry the infected ear heads in the soil, so that secondary spread is avoided.