Development of sustainable management strategies for insect-vectors of Maize lethal Necrosis Disease in East Africa

The recent outbreak and spread of Maize (=Corn) Lethal Necrosis (MLN/CLN) has threatened food security in the eastern Africa region. MLN in Africa is caused by a co-infection by Maize chlorotic mottle virus (MCMV) and Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV). Corn thrips, Frankliniella williamsi Hood and corn aphid, Rophalosiphum sp. are known to vector MCMV and SCMV, respectively. However further information on the identity and distribution of potential vectors of MCMV and SCMV in eastern Africa, their host plants and management strategies are not known. In this regard, icipe collaborate with national, regional and international partners to fill this knowledge gap. The project has identified three thrips and two beetles as vector of MCMV and one aphid species as vector of SCMV. The project has made the first report on lethal necrosis infection on Finger millet.

Donors:

• KALRO-KAPAP
• Maize CRP-CIMMYT
• DFID

Collaborators:

• KALRO 
• CIMMYT
• IITA