Pathogenesis, Host Resistance and Integrated Management of Sugarcane Smut Caused by Sporisorium scitamineum : A Comprehensive Review

ABSTRACT Sugarcane smut, caused by the fungus Sporisorium scitamineum , is a devastating disease that threatens sugar production, leading to significant yield losses. The pathogen disrupts sugarcane growth by forming whip‐like structures filled with teliospores, which are disseminated through wind and rain. The control efforts are further complicated by its broad host adaptability, genetic diversity and ability to suppress host defences. Current management relies on resistant cultivars, agronomic practices, chemical and biological control measures, as well as emerging smart monitoring systems. Nevertheless, pathogen evolution and climate change pose ongoing challenges. This review synthesises recent advances in the biology, pathogenesis, host resistance mechanisms and integrated management strategies for sugarcane smut, with a particular focus on multi‐omics approaches that provide new insights into pathogen–host interactions. However, translating these insights into durable resistance and sustainable control strategies remains a key challenge for future research. Taxonomy Domain Eukaryota, Kingdom Fungi, Phylum Basidiomycota, Class Ustilaginomycetes, Order Ustilaginales, Family Ustilaginaceae, Genus Sporisorium . Biology Sporisorium scitamineum is a biotrophic fungus with a complex sexual‐asexual life cycle. Diploid teliospores germinate into haploid sporidia under favourable conditions. Compatible sporidia, regulated by tightly linked a and b mating‐type loci, mate to form dikaryotic hyphae, which invade sugarcane meristematic tissues via appressoria and cell wall degradation. The hyphae proliferate systemically in meristems and vascular tissues, divert host nutrients and finally induce whip‐like sori with new teliospores. Host Range Primarily infects sugarcane; exhibits geographic genetic differentiation with adapted populations in Southeast Asia, South America and China. This regional adaptation is driven by long‐term host–pathogen co‐evolution and environmental factors. Disease Symptoms Characterised by whip‐like sori at stalk apices, chlorotic and elongated leaves, increased tillering, thinner stalks and overall stunted growth, these symptoms collectively lead to reduced sugarcane yield and quality. Disease Control Managed through resistant varieties, hot water treatment of seed cane, crop rotation, fungicides, biocontrol agents and smart systems using remote sensing and AI‐based forecasting.