Which pathogen is associated with the corn disease known as Crazy top?

Crazy top is a plant disease specifically associated with a fungus known as Sclerophthora macrosperma. This pathogen infects corn and is characterized by abnormal growth patterns, such as excessive tillering and the formation of strap-like leaves that appear twisted and malformed. The distinct symptoms of Crazy top are linked to the fungal organism's ability to disrupt normal plant physiology, leading to these peculiar growth forms.

Fungi like Sclerophthora macrosperma thrive in certain environmental conditions, especially in wet, stressful situations for the corn plant, which can further facilitate their infection and subsequent disease manifestation. Understanding the role of specific pathogens, like fungi, in plant diseases allows for better management strategies and control measures to mitigate their impact on crops such as corn.