This disease is caused by the soilborne fungus Sclerospora macrospora. Image below illustrates the characteristic symptom: partial or complete replacement of the normal tassel by a large, bushy mass of small leaves. Common corn smut is present in the center, which is reported to be a frequent occurrence. This photograph was taken at LIHREC on 21 August 2001. It is the only known occurrence on Long Island since 1988, including at LIHREC where corn experiments are conducted every year. While generally considered unimportant in the dissemination of the fungus, seed transmission of the pathogen has been demonstrated and seems the most likely source for this isolated occurrence.
Posted March 2024.
