Planting time key to MRDV control

摘要

Maize rough dwarf virus (MRDV) is a major pathogen affecting maize production in Spain. The virus is vectored by several pests, including the small brown planthopper (Laodelphax striatellus). MRDV can drastically reduce yields when plants are infected at early vegetative stages. A study by researchers in north-east Spain found that L striatellus was the only planthopper found on maize and is probably the only vector in Spanish maize crops.