AVALIAÇÃO DA INCIDÊNCIA DE FUNGOS NA CULTURA DA CANA- DE-AÇÚCAR

Abstract

This study evaluated the incidence of red rot, caused by the fungus Colletotrichum falcatum, in four sugarcane varieties cultivated at the Instituto Federal Goiano – Campus Ceres. Symptomatic leaves were collected and subjected to severity analysis through digital imaging techniques using the ImageJ software, followed by laboratory confirmation of the pathogen. Statistical analysis (ANOVA, Tukey’s test, p ≤ 0.05) revealed significant differences among cultivars: Cana Caiana (8.37%) and RB056380 (9.67%) showed greater resistance; Caiana Roxa (16.30%) demonstrated intermediate susceptibility; and Cana-Vieira (22.47%) was highly susceptible. The results confirm genetic variability among cultivars and reinforce that sugarcane resistance is quantitative in nature, mitigating disease severity without conferring absolute immunity. The selection of resistant varieties constitutes an essential strategy in integrated disease management, reducing economic losses, dependence on chemical pesticides, and promoting greater sustainability in the sugar-energy chain.