THE CURRENT DISEASE SITUATION IN COMMERCIAL SUGARCANE AT RAMU, PAPUA NEW GUINEA

摘要

papua New Guinea (PNG) is a centre of origin for several Saccharum species, including S. officinarum, the original species used in commercial production. A number of endemic diseases affect commercial sugar production in PNG on the commercial estate of Ramu Sugar Limited at Gusap, Madang Province. These include downy mildew, Ramu stunt and the leaf diseases brown rust and yellow spot. Of these, downy mildew is of greatest significance. Ramu stunt has also had a very serious effect on crop production.Resistance screening trials are undertaken routinely for both downy mildew and Ramu stunt. In recent years, two previously exotic major diseases, leaf scald and ratoon stunting disease (RSD), have been identified on the estate. RSD is now a serious problem for Ramu Sugar and control programs are being established. Diseases will be of on-going importance for commercial sugar production in PNG.