Epidemiology and control of banana leaf spot (Mycosphaerella musicola Leach) in North Queensland

Abstract

The presence of Mycosphaerella musicola, the ascigerous stage of Cercospora musae Zimm., in North Queensland is confirmed. Tip spotting is prominent on mother plants, while line spotting usually occurs on followers. The relationship of seasonal conditions and other factors to infection and duration of the incubation period is discussed in the light of field observations and experiments. Moisture and temperature have the most decisive influence during the epiphyllic stage and the greatest intensity of infection occurs during the wet summer months.