Sorghum bicolor
sorghum
38 Related Pests
Peronosclerospora philippinensis
fungus
Sclerospora phillipinensis, Sclerospora maydis
Africa: Mauritius; Asia: Bangladesh, China, India, Indonesia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand.
Not known occur. Reports of pathogen in the US have not been verified (PRSCPH-4)
Mexico
2024-11-18
Downing mildew caused by Peronsclerospora phillippensis is primarily a disease of tropical Asia and Africa. It is one of the most destructive diseases of corn globally. It is commonly dispersed by air currents and rainsplash. It can be spread through corn seeds, especially if not properly dried. This is on the USDA Plant Protection And Quarantine (PPQ)
Select Agents and Toxins list. P. philippinensis closely resembles P. sacchari.
Main: corn; Other: Poaceae family such as oats, sugarcane, and sorghum
No
No references found indicating seed is a pathway.
Dickeya chrysanthemi
bacterium
Dickeya chrysanthemi bv. chrysanthemi
Dickeya chrysanthemi bv. parthenii
Dickeya chrysanthemi pv. chrysanthemi
Dickeya chrysanthemi pv. parthenii
Erwinia carotovora f.sp. parthenii
Erwinia carotovora var. chrysanthemi
Erwinia chrysanthemi
Erwinia chrysanthemi pv. chrysanthemi
Erwinia chrysanthemi pv. parthenii (
Pectobacterium carotovorum f.sp. chrysanthemi
Pectobacterium carotovorum var. chrysanthemi
Pectobacterium chrysanthemi
Pectobacterium chrysanthemi pv. chrysanthemi
Pectobacterium chrysanthemi pv. parthenii
Pectobacterium parthenii
Pectobacterium parthenii var. chrysanthemi
Pectobacterium parthenii-dianthicola
Worldwide
AR, CA, CO, CT, FL, GA, IL, MA, MN, NE, NY, NC, ND, OH, PA, SD, TX, VA, WI
Mexico, China
2025-09-12
Dickeya chrysanthemi strains have been isolated from a number of different hosts in different countries. The list of all susceptible plants after inoculation by Dickeya chrysanthemi would be far longer than the natural host range, and difficult to establish. There is little if any information on seed as a pathway for this pathogen and therefore should not be regulated.
Eriwina chrysanthemi has been reclassified into Pectobacterium spp. and Dickeya spp.
Primarily ornamentals and flowers. Main: Araceae, Asteraceae familes
No
ERIWCH-10, CABI CPC
No references found indicating that eggplant seed is a pathway for this pathogen.
ERIWCH-10, CABI CPC
Jensen, Mayberry and Obrigwitch. 1986. Identification of Erwinia chrysanthemi as a Soft-Rot-Inducing Pathogen of Grain Sorghum. S. G. Jensen, W. R. Mayberry, and J. A. Obrigawitch. Plant Dis. 70: 593-596
Crop Protection Compendium. Wallingford, UK: CAB International. www.cabi.org/cpc.
Sclerophthora rayssiae var. zeae
fungus
n/a
Asia: India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Thailand.
Not known occur
China
2025-02-07
Sclerophthora rayssiae var. zeae is is seedborne in corn seeds; however it is typically transmitted by wind, rain, and soil. Pest is on USDA Plant Protection and Quarantine Select Agents and Toxins list.
Main: corn; Other: crabgrasses
Not a host
CABI CPC
No references found indicating sorghum is a host in nature.
CABI CPC
Crop Protection Compendium. Wallingford, UK: CAB International. www.cabi.org/cpc.
Peronosclerospora sorghi
fungus
Sclerospora andropogonis-sorghi, Sclerospora graminicola var. andropogonis-sorghi, Sclerospora sorghi, Sorosporium andropogonis-sorghi
Worldwide
AL. AR, GA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MD, MN, MS, MO, NE, NV, NM, OK, TN, TX
Mexico, Korea
2025-08-13
Peronosclerospora sorghi spreads when oospores in soil or plant debris germinate in cool, humid weather, releasing zoospores that enter through the roots and move throughout the plant. Infected leaves produce sporangia that release more zoospores, allowing the disease to spread to nearby plants and cause stunting, yellowing, and poor or sterile grain heads.
Main: sorghum, corn
Yes
PRSCSO-2, PRSCSO-4, PRSCSO-5, PRSCSO-10
Mycelium may invade seed parts. Transmission is low and occurs when immature seeds are planted immediately after harvest. Oospores may be associated with seed or seed debris.
PRSCSO-2, PRSCSO-4, PRSCSO-5, PRSCSO-10
Visual examination, Wash test, Grow out, PCR
CABI CPC
These methods have been validated or standardized. NSHS standard method for this pathogen in corn is the Grow out.
Chemical, cultural
PRSCSO-3, PRSCSO-4, PRSCSO-6, CABI CPC
This pathogen appears to be a bigger problem in farmer-saved seed. Using certified/healthy seed is recommended. Metalaxyl treatment is effective. Use resistant varieties. Proper drying and storing is useful to prevent transmission.
Kenneth, RG. 1981. Downy Mildews of Graminaceous Crops. In, The Downy Mildews, ed. Spencer, DM. Academic Press, New York
Bonde, MR. 1982. Epidemiology of Downy Mildews of Maize, Sorghum and Pearl Millet. Tropical Pest Management 28:49-60
Adenle VO, Cardwell KF, 2000. Seed transmission of maize downy mildew (Peronosclerospora sorghi) in Nigeria. Plant Pathology, 49:628-634
Khaskheli, M. A., Nizamani, M. M., Tarafder, E., Das, D., Nosheen, S., Muhae-Ud-Din, G., ... & Yang, S. W. (2025). Sustainable Management of Major Fungal Phytopathogens in Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L.) for Food Security: A Comprehensive Review. Journal of Fungi, 11(3), 207.
Crop Protection Compendium. Wallingford, UK: CAB International. www.cabi.org/cpc.
Odvody GN, Frederiksen RA, 1984. Use of systemic fungicides metalaxyl and fosetyl-Al for control of sorghum downy mildew in corn and sorghum in South Texas. I: seed treatment. Plant Disease, 68:604-607
Jones BL, Leeper JC, Frederiksen RA, 1972. Sclerospora sorghi in corn: its location in carpellate flowers and mature seeds. Phytopathology, 62:817-819.
Periconia circinata
fungus
Aspergillus circinatus
Africa: South Africa, Tanzania; Asia: China; Europe: Czechia, Frace. Romania, UK; North America: USA; Oceania: Australia
AR, CA, KS, MS, NE, NM, OK, TX
Korea, Mexico
2025-09-29
Periconia circinata is a soilborne fungus that infects plant roots and lower stems, causing root rot. It spreads mainly through contaminated soil, with infected plant debris serving as a local reservoir.
Main: Sorghum; Other: Johnson grass
No
PERCCI-2, PERCCI-3, PERCCI-4, PERCCI-5
Periconia circinata infects sorghum roots and lower stems, causing damping-off and root rot. It spreads through contaminated soil. Seed is not a known pathway.
PERCCI-2, PERCCI-3, PERCCI-4, PERCCI-5
Odvody GN, Dunkle LD, Edmunds LK, 1977. Characterization of the Periconia circinata population in a milo disease nursery. Phytopathology, 67:1485-1489
Farr, D.F. and Rossman, A.Y. Fungal Databases, Systematic Mycology and Microbiology Laboratory, ARS, USDA. 2016, http://nt.ars-grin.gov/fungaldatabases/
Hansing ED, Hartley A, 1962. Sorghum seed fungi and their control. Proceedings of the Associaition of Official Seed Analysts, 52:143-148.
Churchill, A. C., Dunkle, L. D., Silbert, W., Kennedy, K. J., & Macko, V. (2001). Differential synthesis of peritoxins and precursors by pathogenic strains of the fungus Periconia circinata. Applied and environmental microbiology, 67(12), 5721-5728.
Maize chlorotic dwarf virus
virus
Maize chlorotic dwarf machlovirus, Maize chlorotic dwarf Maize chlorotic dwarf virus group, Maize chlorotic dwarf ribotungrovirus, Maize chlorotic dwarf waikavirus, Ohio corn stunt agent
North America: USA
AL, AR, DE, GA, IL, IN, KY, LA, LA, MD, MS, MO, NC, OH, PA, SC, TN, TX, VA
China
2025-09-12
Maize chlorotic dwarf virus is transmitted by leafhoppers (predominantly Graminella nigrifrons). The virus overwinters in perennial hosts such as Johnsongrass, providing a reservoir for infection in subsequent growing seasons. Transmission occurs through leafhopper feeding. There is no evidence that seed is a pathway.
Main: corn; Other: foxtail, sorghum, johnsongrass
No
MCDV00-2, PVT000-2, CABI CPC, MCDV00-3
Established as a host. No evidence that seed is a pathway. Transmitted by leafhoppers only.
MCDV00-2, PVT000-2, CABI CPC, MCDV00-3
Brunt, AA, Crabtree, K., Dallwitz, MJ, Gibbs, AJ, Watson, L. and Zurcher, EJ. (eds.). Plant Viruses Online: Descriptions and Lists from the VIDE Database, Version: 16th 1997. http://bio-mirror.im.ac.cn/mirrors/pvo/vide/refs.htm
Salazar LF, Harrison BD, 1978. Host range, purification and properties of potato virus T. Annals of Applied Biology, 89:223-235
Crop Protection Compendium. Wallingford, UK: CAB International. www.cabi.org/cpc.
Nault, L.R., Gordon, D.T., Robertson, D.C. and Bradfute, O.E., 1976. Host range of maize chlorotic dwarf virus. Plant Disease Reporter, 60(5), pp.374-377.
Maize streak virus
virus
Sugarcane streak virus, Cereal African streak virus, Maize mottle virus,
Maize streak monogeminivirus
India, Indonesia, Yemen, widespread in Africa
Not known to occur.
Korea
2023-08-21
No evidence that seed is a pathway for this virus. Transmitted by leafhoppers only. Maize streak virus is a quaratine pest in the USA
corn, sugarcane, oat, barley, rye, sorghum, wheat, grasses (Poaceae family)
No
MSV000-1, MSV000-2, MSV000-3
No evidence that seed is a pathway. Transmission by leafhoppers only
MSV000-1, MSV000-2, MSV000-3
Maize Streak Virus. In: Crop Protection Compendium. Wallingford, UK: CAB International. www.cabi.org/cpc.
Richardson, MJ. 1990. An Anotated List of Seed-Borne Disease. International Seed Testing Association. Zurich, Switzerland
Brunt, AA, Crabtree, K., Dallwitz, MJ, Gibbs, AJ, Watson, L. and Zurcher, EJ. (eds.). Plant Viruses Online: Descriptions and Lists from the VIDE Database, Version: 16th 1997. http://bio-mirror.im.ac.cn/mirrors/pvo/vide/refs.htm
Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. nebraskensis
bacterium
Corynebacterium michiganense pv. nebraskense, Corynebacterium michiganense subsp. nebraskense, Corynebacterium nebraskense
Canada
Midwest states
China, Korea, Sudan
2023-08-03
Found in US Midwest where field corn is grown.
corn, sugarcane, sorghum, sudan grass.
No
No references found indicating sorghum seed is a pathway. Seed pathway may be inferred because seed pathway for corn is known.
Maize dwarf mosaic virus
virus
Maize mosaic virus, European mosaic virus, Indian mosaic virus, Maize stripe mosaic virus, sorghum red stripe virus, maize dwarf mosaic potyvirus
Worldwide
Widespread
2025-08-04
Maize dwarf mosaic virus is transmitted by aphids in a nonpersistent manner and can also be spread through seed at low rates.
Main: sorghum, corn; Other: oats, millet, sugarcane.
No
MDMV00-1, MDMV00-6
Sorghum seed is not known to be a pathway.
MDMV00-1, MDMV00-6
N/a
Balansia oryzae-sativae
fungus
Balansia oryzae, Ephelis oryzae, Ephelis pallida
Primarily Asia. Reported in Sierra Leone, Africa, New Caledonia, Vanuatu
LA, FL
2023-08-21
Reported only in LA, FL on rice.
Rice, sorghum. Considered a minor pathogen of several other grains and grasses, including bermuda grass.
No
No references found indicating seed is a pathway. May have been inferred because seed transmission occurs in rice. There are very few reports of this pathogen in this crop.
Cercospora sorghi
fungus
Cercospora sorghi var. maydis
Worldwide
Southeast and Midwest states
-
2025-01-03
Cercospora sorghi is usually considered a minor disease, except where susceptible cultivars are grown Areas that are wet or humid and warm promote disease development on infected leaf tissue and provide abundant production of sports which are spread by wind and rain.
Main: poaceae speices: sorghum, Johnson grass, Sudan grass, corn
uncertain
CERCSG-1, CERCSG-4, CERCSG-6, CERCSG-9, CERCSG-10, CERCSG-11
References indicate seed may be a pathway only show possible seed contamination but not seed transmission (CERCSG-6) or speculate that seed may be a pathway (CERCSG-4, CERCSG-7). Other sources do not consider seed a pathway for this pathogen.
CERCSG-1, CERCSG-4, CERCSG-6, CERCSG-9, CERCSG-10, CERCSG-11
Blotter incubation
CERCSG-6
Since seed as a pathway has not been proven, this test has not been validated or standardized.
Chemical, cultural
CABI CPC
Seed treatments such as thiram, have been described as a general protectant (not pathogen specific). Also common cultural practices for good seed quality should be practices, such as removal of alternative hosts, crop rotation, etc.
Cercospora sorghi In: Crop Protection Compendium. Wallingford, UK: CAB International. www.cabi.org/cpc.
Grey Leaf Spot or Cercospora Leaf Spot. 2017. Crop Gene Bank www.cropgenebank.sgrp.cgiar.org
Girish AG, Singh SD, Chakrabarty SK, Prasada Rao RDVJ, Surender A, Varaprasad KS, Bramel PJ. 2001. Seed microflora of five ICRISAT mandate crops. Seed Science and Technology Journal : 29: 429-443
Okori, P., Rubaihayo, P. R., Ekwamu, A., Fahleson, J., & Dixelius, C. (2004). Genetic characterization of Cercospora sorghi from cultivated and wild sorghum and its relationship to other Cercospora fungi. Phytopathology, 94(7), 743-750.
Navi, S. S., Bandyopadhyay, R., Tonapi, V. A., Rao, T. G. N., Indira, S., Reddy, R. K., Tooley, P. W., Thomas, D., 2007. Prevalence of major foliar and panicle diseases of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench) in the Deccan plateau of India.Archives of Phytopathology and Plant Protection, 40(1) 19-35.
Ngugi, H. K., King, S. B., Abayo, G. O., Reddy, Y. V. R., 2002. Prevalence, incidence, and severity of sorghum diseases in Western Kenya.Plant Disease, 86(1) 65-70.
Crop Protection Compendium. Wallingford, UK: CAB International. www.cabi.org/cpc.
Pleospora herbarum
fungus
Too many to list, most commonly used names include Alternaria putrefaciens, Clasterosporium putrefaciens, Sporidesmium putrefaciens, Stemphyllium botryosum, Stemphylium herbarum.
Worldwide
Widespread
2023-08-21
Primarily a post harvest pathogen
Wide host range
No
No references found indicating seed is a pathway
Sugarcane mosaic virus
virus
abaca mosaic potyvirus
abaca mosaic virus
European mosaic virus
Grass mosaic virus
maize dwarf mosaic potyvirus strain B
maize dwarf mosaic virus strain B
Sorghum red stripe virus
Sorghum concentric ring virus
sugarcane mosaic potyvirus
Worldwide in sugarcane growing regions
Fl, HA
-
2025-08-15
This virus is often mistaken for Sorghum mosaic virus, as both viruses produce similar symptoms in sugarcane. Its strains are generally host-specific. The virus is transmitted by aphids and is a component of the corn lethal necrosis complex, but it is not known to be seed-transmitted.
Main: sugarcane, corn; Other: soghum
No
CABI CPC, DPV WEB
Seed is not known to be a pathway
CABI CPC, DPV WEB
Xanthomonas vasicola pv. holcicola
bacterium
Bacterium holcicola, Phytomonas holcicola, Pseudomonas holcicola, Xanthomonas campestris pv. holcicola, Xanthomonas holcicola
Africa: Cote d'Ivoire, Ethipia, Gambia, Madagascar, Niger, South Africa, Togo; Asia: Bangladesh, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Philippines, Thailand; Europe: France, Romania, Russia, Ukraine; North America: Mexico, USA; Oceania: Australia, New Zealand, Solomon Islands; South America: Argentina, Brazil, Venezuela.
AZ, AR, IA, KS, MN, MT, NE, NM, ND, OK, OR, SD, TX, UT, VA, WA, WY
Korea
2025-10-08
Xanthomonas vasicola pv. holcicola causes bacterial leaf streak or blight in sorghum. Infected plants develop water-soaked streaks along leaves that later become necrotic, potentially reducing photosynthesis and crop yield. The pathogen is not seedborne and has no known insect vectors. Spread occurs primarily through rain splash, overhead irrigation, and mechanically with infected plant tissue. The bacterium can survive on crop residues and wild grasses, serving as a source of inoculum for subsequent seasons.
Main: sorghum, sudan grass, millet; Other: corn
No
CABI CPC, XANTHO-2
Seed is not known to be a pathway for this pathogen on any crop
CABI CPC, XANTHO-2
Bipolaris sorghicola
fungus
Drechslera cookei, Drechslera sorghicola, Helminthosporium cookei, Helminthosporium sorghi, Helminthosporium sorghicola
Asia: China, Iran; North America: USA; South America: Venezuela.
MS, NC
Korea
2024-09-04
Bipolaris sorghicola survives in residue, and weed hosts such as Johnsongrass.
Main: Sorghum. Other: Johnsongrass.
No
DRECSO-1, RICHISTA, DRECSO-3
No references found indicating seed is a pathway. RICH ISTA does not list this pathogen as seed borne.
DRECSO-1, RICHISTA, DRECSO-3
Claviceps africana
fungus
Sphacelia sorghi
Africa: widespread; Asia: India, Japan, Thailand, Yemen; North America: Dominican Republic, Haiti, Honduras, Jamaica, Mexico, Puerto Rico; Oceania: Australia; South America: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Paraguay
FL, GA, KS, MS, NE, OK, TX
Korea
2025-08-05
Claviceps africana infects flowers during or after blooming, producing a sticky honeydew and eventually dark sclerotia. It is primarily windborne but sources note sorghum seed as a pathway.
Main: Sorghum. Other: Johnsongrass.
Yes
CLAVAF-3, CLAVAF-4, CLAVAF-5, CLAVAF-6, CLAVAF-7, CLAVAF-8, CLAVAF-9, CLAVAF-10
Usually associated with seed lots or sclerotia may be attached to seed coat exudates. Seed as a pathway is established but importance in spread is disputed. However, seed cleaning, storage and seed treatments has essentially eliminated seed inoculum.
CLAVAF-3, CLAVAF-4, CLAVAF-5, CLAVAF-6, CLAVAF-7, CLAVAF-8, CLAVAF-9, CLAVAF-10
Visual examination of seed
CLAVAF-3
This test has not been validated or standardized.
Seed Treatment (thiram) and Seed conditioning
CLAVAF-5
Seed treatments, cleaning and seed storage for 2-3 months essentially eliminates contamination of seed by Claviceps africana.
Alderman S, Frederickson D, Milbrath G, Montes N, Narro-Sanchez J, 1999. A laboratory guide to the identification of Claviceps purpurea and Claviceps africana in grass and sorghum seed samples. Sponsored by the Seed trade Associations of Mexico, America, Oregon, Texas.
Mcleran, NW. 1993. Effect of sugary disease exudates on germination, seedling development and predisposition to seedling diseases of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor). South African Journal of Plant and Soil 10:12-16
Odvody GN, Frederickson DE, Isakeit T, Montes N, Dahlberg JA, Peterson GL, 2002. Quarantine issues arising from contamination of seed with ergot: an update. In: Sorghum and Millets Diseases ed. by Leslie JF, Iowa State University Press, Ames. Iowa, USA: pg.123-129.
Frederickson, D. E., Mantle, P. G., & De Milliano, W. A. J. (1993). Windborne spread of ergot disease (Claviceps africana) in sorghum A‐lines in Zimbabwe. Plant Pathology, 42(3), 368-377.
Miedaner, T., & Geiger, H. H. (2015). Biology, Genetics, and Management of Ergot (Claviceps spp.) in Rye, Sorghum, and Pearl Millet. Toxins, 7(3), 659-678. https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins7030659
Ahn, E., Fall, C., Botkin, J., Curtin, S., Prom, L. K., & Magill, C. (2023). Inoculation and Screening Methods for Major Sorghum Diseases Caused by Fungal Pathogens: Claviceps africana, Colletotrichum sublineola, Sporisorium reilianum, Peronosclerospora sorghi and Macrophomina phaseolina. Plants, 12(9), 1906.
Pažoutová, S., & Frederickson, D. E. (2005). Genetic diversity of Claviceps africana on sorghum and Hyparrhenia. Plant pathology, 54(6), 749-763.
Bandyopadhyay R, Frederickson DE, McLaren NW, Odvody GN, Ryley MJ, 1998 . Ergot: a new disease threat to sorghum in the Americas and Australia. Plant Disease, 82(4):356-367; 54 ref.
Cochliobolus spicifer
fungus
Bipolaris spicifera, Brachycladium spiciferum,Curvularia spicifera, Drechslera spicifera,Drechslera tetramera, Helminthosporium spiciferum
Worldwide
Widespread
Korea
2022-11-11
Primarily a leaf pathogen of grass. Only reported in sorghum in Kansas (COCHSI-2)
Wide, but primarily causing disease in grasses in nature. If not listed below, the presence of this pathogen on a host seems to be unimportant or a scientific curiosity.
Yes
COCHSI-5, COCHSI-6
Though this pathogen is recovered from sorghum seed more often than other grains. The pathogen is still not considered important in sorghum production and it is easily controlled with seed treatments. The fungus and its synonyms seem to be worldwide and its presence on seed seems to have little or no effect on disease development.
COCHSI-5, COCHSI-6
Blotter or Freezing blotter
COCHSI-8
Though reference above refers to ISTA Seed Health Testing, no specific testing on sorghum seed was found. Methods primarily used on grass seed.
Yes, thiram or mancozeb eradicates fungus on seed
COCHSI-5
Saravanan T; Karuppiah R, 2005. Effects of fungicides, biocontrol agents and plant extracts on sorghum seed infection. Journal of Ecobiology, 17:461-465.
Fakhrunnisa M.H., Hashimi AND Ghaffar A., 2006. Seed-borne Mycoflora of Wheat, Sorghum and Barley. Pak. J. Bot., 38(1): 185-192
Banerjee N; Pandey AK; Jamaluddin, 2011. First report of the Drechslera state of Cochliobolus spicifer infecting seeds of Parthenium hysterophorus in India. New Disease Reports, 24:Article 7. http://www.ndrs.org.uk
Ascochyta sorghi
fungus
Ascochyta sorghina, Mycosphaerella ceres, Mycosphaerella exitialis, Sphaerella ceres, Sphaerella exitialis
Africa: Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Eritrea, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Kenya, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo; Asia: China, India, Japan, Myanmar, Pakistan; Europe: Czechia, Iceland, Italy; North America: Mexico, Panama, USA.
AL, FL, LA, MS, NC, OK, SC
Sudan
2024-06-09
sorghum, barley, Johnson grass, Sudan grass.
No
ASCOSO-2, ASCOSO-3
Early reports of this pathogen indicated that Ascochyta sorghi spores may contaminate spikelet glumes but modern cleaning and conditioning and resistant varieties have essentially eliminated this contamination. The disease is not considered economically important.
ASCOSO-2, ASCOSO-3
Visual inspection
ASCOSO-3, CABICPC
This method has not been verified or standardized. No recent data found on reliability.
Biological, Chemical, Cultural
CABICPC
High levels of resistance to rough leaf spot have been found among sorghum cultivars. Seed treatments reported from older articles, but no efficacy data reported. Seed cleaning and conditioning essentially removes any fungal contamination. Avoid planting in fields cropped to sorghum or Sudan grass is recommended.
Heterodera zeae
nematode
-
Africa: Egypt; Asia: Afghanistan, China, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Nepal, Pakistan, Thailand; Europe: Greece, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain; North America: USA.
MD, VA, PA
Korea
2024-09-14
Cyst nematodes are root pathogens, Cyst nematode primarily move through flooding water and drainage. Movement of infected material and soil also important. Seed is not known to be a pathway.
Main: corn; Other: oats, barley, rice, millets, sorghum, wheat.
No
HETDZE-2, CABICPC, HETDZE-3
Seed is not known to be a pathway.
HETDZE-2, CABICPC, HETDZE-3
Enterobacter dissolvens
bacterium
Aerobacter dissolvens, Aplanobacter dissolvens, Bacterium dissolvens, Erwinia dissolvens, Phytomonas dissolvens, Pseudomonas dissolvens
Africa: India; Europe: Bulgaria, Spain; North America: Canada, USA.
Widespread
Thailand
2024-09-13
Main: sorghum, corn, tobacco
No
ERWIDI-2
No references found indicating seed is a pathway.
ERWIDI-2
Richardson MJ, 1990. An Annotated List of Seed-borne Disease. International Seed Testing Association, Zurich, Switzerland
Herbaspirillum rubrisubalbicans
bacterium
Pseudomonas rubrisubalbicans, Bacterium rubrisubalbicans, Phytomonas rubrisubalbicans, Xanthomonas rubrisubalbicans
Africa: Angonal, Benin, Burundi, Central African Republic, Cote d'Ivorie, Madagascar, Malawi, Mauritius, Niger, Reunion, Tanzania, Togo; Asia: China, Japan, Sri Lanka, Thailand; North America: Barbados, Cuba, Guadeloupe, Jamaica, Martinique, Nicaragua, Panama, Puerto Rico, USA; Oceania: Australia, Fiji, New Zealand; South America: Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Venezuela.
FL, LA, TX
Thailand
2024-09-14
No evidence that seed is a pathway. Thailand regulated pest list uses P. rubrisbalbicans.
sugarcane, sorghum, corn
No
CABICPC
Seed is not known to be a pathway.
CABICPC
Pseudomonas syringae pv. lapsa
bacterium
Chlorobacter lapsus, Phytomonas lapsa, Pseudomonas lapsa
Egypt, Nigeria, China, India, Pakistan, Germany
CA
Thailand
2022-12-01
sugarcane, sorghum, corn, wheat
No
No references found indicating seed is a pathway.
Sclerospora graminicola
fungus
Peronospora graminicola, Peronospora setariae, Protomyces graminicola,Sclerospora graminicola var. setariae--italicae, Ustilago urbani
Africa, Asia, Europe, Canada, Mexico, Fiji, Argentina
Widespread in Southeastern US, not reported in Western US
Thailand
2023-08-21
This is an important disease of pearl millet, especially in the tropic climates. Other hosts seem to be unimportant or incidental.
pearl millet, millet. sugarcane, corn, foxtail millet, duram wheat, sorghum, several wild grasses
No
No references found indicating sorghum seed is a pathway. Sorghum is not an important host for this pathogen.
Sphacelotheca reiliana
fungus
Sorosporium holci-sorghi, Sorosporium holci-sorghi f. sp. zeae, Sorosporium reilianum, Sporisorium reilianum, Ustilago reiliana, Ustilago reiliana f. sp. zeae, Cintractia reiliana, Ustilago abortifera, Ustilago holci-sorghi, Sporisorium holci-sorghi, Sphacelotheca holci-sorghi, Ustilago pulveracea, Sorosporium simii
Worldwide
Widespread
Thailand
2022-12-01
Usually only associated with seed lots as loose spores. Primarily soil borne. Not an economically important disease anywhere.
Primarily a pathogen of sorghum. Corn and other grasses are hosts
No
SPHTRE-5
Pathway not proven. Spores are associated with seed lots, but no evidence that it is seed borne. Much like corn, seed transmission is rare and seed treatments and cleaning are effective in reducing contamination.
SPHTRE-5
Fungicide seed treatments.
SPHTRE-1, SPHTRE-5
Seed cleaning and conditioning effectively control this pathogen in seed lots.
Sclerophthora macrospora
fungus
Phytophthora macrospora, Phytophthora oryzae, Sclerospora macrospora, Sclerospora oryzae, Nozemia macrospora, Sclerospora kriegeriana
Worldwide
AZ, AR, FL, IL, LA, MS, ND, RI, TN, TX
Thailand
2023-08-21
corn, rice, oat, barley, rye, sorghum, sugarcane
No
SCPHMA-4
No references found indicating that seed is a pathway.
SCPHMA-4
Richardson MJ, 1990. An Annotated List of Seed-borne Disease. International Seed Testing Association, Zurich, Switzerland
Pseudocochliobolus pallescens
fungus
Cochliobolus pallescens, Curvularia leonensis, Curvularia pallescens
Africa, Southeast Asia, Caribbean, South America, Pakistan, Australia, Denmark, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Togo, Canada, Mexico
DC, IA
Korea
2023-08-21
pepper, corn, bean, fava bean, wheat , rice, sorghum, sugarcane, soybean, potato, buckwheat,
No
No references found indicating seed is a pathway.
Phyllachora sacchari
fungus
Phyllachora sacchari-aegyptiaci
Asia: Brunei, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines; Oceania: Papua New Guinea.
Not known to occur
Korea
2024-12-16
Distribution information from ARS GRIN.
sugarcane, sorghum, millet
No
No references found indicating seed is a pathway.
Setosphaeria rostrata
fungus
Exserohilum rostratum, Helminthosporium rostratum, Bipolaris rostrata, Drechslera rostrata, Exserohilum antillanum, Exserohilum gedarefense, Variant spelling Exserohilum gedarefensis, Helminthosporium halodes, Bipolaris halodes, Exserohilum halodes, Drechslera halodes, Helminthosporium halodes var. elaeicola, Helminthosporium halodes var. tritici, Helminthosporium leptochloae, Helminthosporium longirostratum, Exserohilum longirostratum, Exserohilum macginnisii, Setosphaeria prolata, Exserohilum prolatum, Drechslera prolata
Worldwide
Widespread, especially east of the Continental Divide
Korea
2023-08-21
Primarily grasses and grains, reported on other over 200 plant species, including several vegetable crops, but these seem to be experimental curiosity or occasional findings that are not confirmed. Only important grains listed below
No
DRECRO-3
Pathway not proven. Seed infection has been demonstrated but seed transmission has not been shown to occur.
DRECRO-3
Richardson MJ, 1990. An Annotated List of Seed-borne Disease. International Seed Testing Association, Zurich, Switzerland
Cochliobolus hawaiiensis
fungus
Drechslera hawaiiensis, Helminthosporium hawaiiense, Bipolaris hawaiiensis, Curvularia hawaiiensis, Pseudocochliobolus hawaiiensis
Africa: Sudan; Asia: Bangladesh, India, Iran, Pakistan, United Arab Emirates; North America: USA.
Fl, MS
Korea
2025-06-18
Cochliobolus hawaiiensis (more commonly Curvularia hawaiiensis)causes leaf spot and blight in crops. It spreads via wind, rain splash, and contaminated tools, surviving on plant debris and thriving in humid conditions. Seed has not been reported as a pathway
corn, wheat, rice, sorghum, grasses
No
COCHHA-3
No references found indicating seed is a pathway.
COCHHA-3
Richardson MJ, 1990. An Annotated List of Seed-borne Disease. International Seed Testing Association, Zurich, Switzerland
Indian peanut clump virus
virus
Indian peanut clump pecluvirus, IPCV
India, Pakistan
Not known to occur
-
2024-09-15
Primarily affects peanut and cereal grains. Requires the Polymyxa graminis to infect. Seed as a pathway has only been shown in peanut and millet (IPCV00-2)
wheat, corn, rice, barley, sorghum, peanut, millet
No
IPCV00-2
Seed is not known to be a pathway.
IPCV00-2
Reddy, A. S., Hobbs, H. A., Delfosse, P., Murthy, A. K., and Reddy, D. V. R. 1998. Seed transmission of Indian peanut clump virus (IPCV) in peanut and millets. Plant Dis. 82:343-346.
Peanut clump virus
virus
Peanut clump furovirus, PCV, Peanut clump pecluvirus
Africa: Benin, Burkina Faso, Chad, Congo, Cote d'Ivoire, Gabon, Mali, Niger, Senegal, Sudan; Asia: India, Pakistan.
Not known to occur
Korea
2025-09-05
Peanut Clump Virus is primarily transmitted through the soil-borne fungus Polymyxa graminis, which infects plant roots. It can also be mechanically transmitted and is only known to be seed transmitted in Arachis hypogaea (groundnut).
Main: groundnut, foxtail millet, Other: Wheat, sugarcane,
No
No references found indicating seed is a pathway. Sorghum can be a host and can be infected by the Polymyxa graminis vector.
Gibberella avenacea
fungus
Fusarium avenaceum, Fusarium avenaceum f.sp. fabae, Fusarium avenaceum subsp. aywerte, Fusarium roseum var. avenaceum
Worldwide, primarily in temperate regions.
AZ, CA, CO, CT, ID, MT, NV, NY, ND, TX, WA, WY
Thailand
2025-10-23
One of many Fusaria, Gibberella's that may contaminate kernels.
Wide host range. Main: Fabaceae and Poaceae family, as well as some Brassicaceae and Cucurbitaceae.
No
GIBBAV-1, GIBBAV-4
Pathway not proven. Though sorghum is a host and seed is commonly listed as a pathway, most literature does not distinguish this pathogen from other similar Fusarium sp.
GIBBAV-1, GIBBAV-4
A blotter test has been described for corn (NSHS USDA).
GIBBAV-1
Common seed fungicides have been effective for other grains.
Pratylenchus zeae
nematode
Pratylenchus indicus
Worldwide
AR, FL, GA, HI, LA, MS, NC, TX
Korea
2024-09-12
Seed is not known to carry the pest in trade/transport. Lesion nematodes are spread through the movement of contaminated soil and infected plant debris.
P. zeae is a pest of rice and other graminaceous crops: principally, maize, sorghum and sugarcane. It has a wide host range.
No
CABICPC, PRATZE-2
Seed is not known to be a pathway
CABICPC, PRATZE-2
Gibberella zeae
fungus
Fusarium graminearum Schwabe, Fusarium graminearum, Fusarium roseum, Fusarium roseum f.sp. cerealis, Fusarium roseum var. graminearum, Gibbera saubinettii, Gibberella saubinetii, Sphaeria zeae Schwein.
Worldwide
Widespread
Thailand
2022-11-22
One of many Fusariium spp. and Gibberella spp. that may contaminate kernels.
Primarily a cereal grain pathogen with a wide host range.
No
No references found indicating seed is a pathway. Sorghum is not an important host of this pathogen.
Meloidogyne naasi
nematode
Libya, Iran, Belgium, Czechia, Czech Republic, Denmark, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Serbia, England, Wales, Canada, New Zealand, Argentina, Chile
CA, IL, KS, KY, MD, MI, NV, NC, OR, SC, UT, WA
Korea
2023-08-21
Seed is not known to be a pathway for Meloidogyne spp. root knot nematodes (MELGNA-2)
barley, wheat, rice, oat, rye, sorghum, grasses
No
MELGNA-2
Seed is not known to be a pathway for Meloidogyne spp. root knot nematodes
MELGNA-2
Crop Rotation
MELGNA-3, MELGNA-4
Lammers, W., Karssen, G., Jellema, P., Baker, R., Hockland, S., Fleming, C. and Turner, S. (2006). Meloidogyne minor Pest Risk Assessment. 08-14648 PPM Point 7.3. Plant Protection Services (NL) and Central Science Laboratory (UK). 52pp. (https://www.eppo.int...)
Allen, MW, Hart WH, and Baghott, K. 1970. Crop rotation controls barley root-knot nematode at Tulelake. Calif. Agr. 24:4-5.
Michell, RE, Malek RB, Taylor DP, and Edwards DI. 1973. Races of the barley root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne naasi. I. Characterization by host preference. J. Nematol. 5:41-44
Alternaria alternata
fungus
Alternaria alternata f.sp. fragariae
Alternaria alternata f.sp. lycopersici
Alternaria fasciculata
Alternaria tenuis
Worldwide
AL, CA, FL, GA, IL, IA, LA, MI, MS, NY, OR, PA, SD, TN, TX
Korea
2025-09-08
Alternaria alternata is a widespread fungus that can persist in soil and crop debris for many years, enabling it to infect plants across successive growing seasons. Its spores are dispersed by air, wind, water splash, irrigation, and contact with contaminated plant material. Numerous studies have demonstrated its transmission under experimental conditions, and it has been shown to be seed-transmitted in a few crops within the Malvaceae family.
Main: allium, pepper; Other: watermelon, sunflower, sorghum, spinach, marigold, many fruits and trees
No
ALTEAL-25, CABI CPC, RICH ISTA, ALTEAL-63, ALTEAL-64, ALTEAL-65
A. alternata is an ubiquitous sporophyte and a weak pathogen of sorghum and has been found on sorghum grains, in laboratory surveys and it may affect grain quality. However, seed transmission is not known to occur.
ALTEAL-25, CABI CPC, RICH ISTA, ALTEAL-63, ALTEAL-64, ALTEAL-65
Blotter incubation, Freezing blotter incubation
ALTEAL-25
These methods has not been standardized or validated.
chemical
CABI CPC
Seed treatments affective against A. alternaria have been described for other hosts.
Fakheunnisa, Hashmi MH and Ghaffer A., 2006 Seed-borne Mycoflora of Wheat, Sorghum and Barley. Pak. J. Bot., 38: 185-192.
Crop Protection Compendium. Wallingford, UK: CAB International. www.cabi.org/cpc.
Richardson, MJ. 1990. An Annotated List of Seedborne Diseases. International Seed Testing Association, Zurich Switzerland.
Yago, J. I., Roh, J. H., Bae, S. D., Yoon, Y. N., Kim, H. J., & Nam, M. H. (2011). The effect of seed-borne mycoflora from sorghum and foxtail millet seeds on germination and disease transmission. Mycobiology, 39(3), 206-218.
Funnell-Harris, D. L., & Pedersen, J. F. (2008). Inoculation strategies to assess biological interactions between Fusarium and Alternaria species infecting sorghum. Canadian journal of plant pathology, 30(3), 404-413.
Terefe, T. G. (2002). Epidemiology of grain mould of sorghum in South Africa and Ethiopia (Doctoral dissertation, University of the Free State).
Cochliobolus cynodontis
fungus
Bipolaris cynodontis, Drechslera cynodontis, Helminthsporuim cynodontis
Worldwide,primarily in the tropics of Asia, Africa, Oceania.
Primarily in the SE.
Korea
2022-11-11
All reports of US presence from 1950-60s. CABI, 2019 does not consider the pathogen to be in the US. Pathogen does not cause serious disease or losses on any host. Also, it is often a secondary invader. (Farr and Rossman, 2019; Manamgoda, 2014)
grains, grasses
No
RICHISTA
No references found indicating that seed is a pathway. This pathogen is not an important disease of grains. Richardson, 1990 does not list the pathogen as seed borne.
RICHISTA
Microdochium sorghi
fungus
Gloeocercospora sorghi, Ramulispora andropogonis, Titaeospora andropogonis
Africa: Benin, Burkina Faso, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Kenya, Mali, Niger, NIgeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Somalia, Sudan, Tanazania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe'; Asia: China, India, Japan, Malaysia, North Korea, Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand; Europe: Russia; North America: Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, USA; Oceania: American Samoa, Australia, Samoa, Tonga; South America: Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Venezuela.
AL, FL, GA, KS, LA, MS, MO, NE, NM, NC, TX
-
2025-06-29
Microdochium sorghi is seedborne and soilborne, with confirmed transmission through infected seed and persistence in soil via sclerotia. It can rapidly infect seedlings, leading to reduced germination and seedling blight.
Main: Sorghum; Other: Poaceae family
Yes
CABI CPC, GLOCSO-1, GLOCSO-2, GLOCSO-3, GLOCSO-4, GLOCSO-5, GLOCSO-6, GLOCSO-7, GLOCSO-8, GLOCSO-9, GLOCSO-10
Sorghum seed is a known pathway for Microdochium sorghi, with studies showing the pathogen can survive in seed for at least 18 months and cause high rates of seedling blight and reduced germination.
CABI CPC, GLOCSO-1, GLOCSO-2, GLOCSO-3, GLOCSO-4, GLOCSO-5, GLOCSO-6, GLOCSO-7, GLOCSO-8, GLOCSO-9, GLOCSO-10
Agar plating
No standardized testing method.
GLOCSO-10
Fungicide treatments, particularly carbendazim and thiabendazole, effectively reduced M. sorghi seedling blight and boosted growth, while Trichoderma viride and neem also lowered disease and improved yield.
Crop Protection Compendium. Wallingford, UK: CAB International. www.cabi.org/cpc.
WATANABE, T., & HASHIMOTO, K. (1978). Recovery of Gloeocercospora sorghi from sorghum seed and soil, and its significance in transmission. Japanese Journal of Phytopathology, 44(5), 633-640.
Bararpout, M. T., Korres, N. E., Allen, T. W., & Bond, J. (2017). Infection of Sorghum bicolor, selected grass species and Zea mays by G loeocercospora sorghi, causal pathogen of zonate leaf spot. Phytoparasitica, 45, 211-217.
Jiang, Y., Xu, J., Hu, L., Liu, K. J., Xu, X. D., Liu, Z., Meng, W. L., 2018. First report of sorghum zonate leaf spot caused by Gloeocercospora sorghi in China.Plant Disease, 102(5) 1033.
Stewart, S., Rodríguez, M., Mattos, N., & Abreo, E. (2019). First report of zonate leaf spot in sorghum caused by Microdochium sorghi in Uruguay. Agrociencia (Uruguay), 23(2), 94-98.
Ngugi, H. K., King, S. B., Abayo, G. O., & Reddy, Y. V. R. (2002). Prevalence, incidence, and severity of sorghum diseases in western Kenya. Plant Disease, 86(1), 65-70.
Navi, S. S., Bandyopadhyay, R., Tonapi, V. A., Rao, T. G. N., Indira, S., Reddy, R. K., ... & Thomas, D. (2007). Prevalence of major foliar and panicle diseases of Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor [L.] Moench) in the Deccan plateau of India. Archives of Phytopathology and Plant Protection, 40(1), 19-35.
Dean, J. L. (1968). Germination and overwintering of sclerotia of Gloeocercospora sorghi.
Singh, D. S., & Pavgi, M. S. (1982). Perpetuation of two foliicolous fungi parasitic on Sorghum, in India.
sorghi is both seedborne and soil-present, with the ability to infect plants quickly. Bain, D. C. (1950). Fungi recovered from seed of Sorghum vulgare Pers.
Mathur, K., Siradhana, B. S., & Lodha, B. C. (1987). Studies on seedling blight of sorghum caused by Gloeocercospora sorghi.
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