Gibberella Ear Rot of Corn
Published: 03/19/2019
Gibberella ear rot is caused by the fungus Gibberella zeae. It is a consistently important mycotoxigenic fungus in the northern Corn Belt, producing vomitoxin, zearalenone, and other toxins. Gibberella ear rot can be identified most readily by the red or pink color of the mold. It almost always begins at the tip of the ear. Excessive mold may cause silks and husks to adhere to the ear. In severe cases, the pink mold is visible on the outside of the husks at the ear tip.
This fungus overwinters in corn residue. Spores are spread by splashing rain and wind, infecting ears through the silks. Silks are most susceptible two to six days after emergence. This ear rot is common, particularly when conditions are cool and wet during grain fill.
Scouting prior to physiological maturity is important to identify areas with mold problems. These areas should be harvested as soon as possible to prevent further mold development. Harvested grain should be cooled, dried, and cleaned immediately after harvest, and stored apart from grain harvested from healthy fields. Insect management reduces the risk of ear rot infection.
Pink mold on the ear characteristic of Gibberella ear rot.
Image: A. Robertson
Gibberella ear rot on hail damaged ear.
Image: A. Robertson
Gibberella ear rot disease cycle.
For additional information see the Ear Rots and Mycotoxin FAQs publications.
Excessive mold may cause silks and husks to adhere to the ear.
Gibberella ear rot on hail damaged ear.
Pink mold on the ear characteristic of Gibberella ear rot.
Gibberella ear rot almost always begins at the tip of the ear.
In severe cases, the pink mold is visible on the outside of the husks.
Gallery Images: A. Robertson and C. Woloshuk.
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