Page 67 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

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Figure 4.9: Rice hispa and its damage in the paddy plant

Rice blast disease: This is a disease in a paddy crop caused by a fungus. The
fungus thrives better in humid, lowland areas. It is a fungal disease that affects
rice plants, causing spindle-shaped lesions with grey centres and brown edges on
leaves, stems, and panicles. Severe infections lead to “neck rot,” which weakens
the panicle and results in significant grain loss. The disease spreads rapidly under
warm, humid conditions and can cause significant yield loss if not managed
properly. Effective control measures of the disease include planting resistant rice
varieties, maintaining proper field sanitation by removing infected plant debris,
and applying fungicides when necessary to prevent severe outbreaks. Figure 4.10
shows the effects of rice blast disease on a paddy plant.

Figure 4.10: Effects of rice blast disease on a paddy plant

Bacterial leaf blight (BLB) disease: Bacterial leaf blight is a serious bacterial
disease of rice that causes yellowing and wilting of leaves, beginning at the tips
and spreading downward. In severe cases, the leaves dry out completely, leading
to plant death and significant yield loss. The disease thrives in warm, humid
conditions and spreads through infected seeds, water, and plant debris. Effective

58 Student’s Book Form Three

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AGRICULTURE F3.indd 58
AGRICULTURE F3.indd 58 17/09/2025 14:11