Blight, specifically a type known as common bunt or stink blight, is characterized by an intense fishy odor.
Understanding the Odor of Blight
One notable type of blight affecting crops, particularly wheat, is often referred to as common bunt or wheat stone blight. This fungal disease has earned its alternative name, stink blight, directly from its most distinctive characteristic: a strong, unpleasant smell.
The specific aroma associated with this particular blight is consistently described as an intense fishy odor. This peculiar smell serves as a key indicator of its presence in affected crops.
The Cause of the Smell
This form of blight is caused by a seed-borne fungus that possesses a high multiplication potential. When it infects crops, it doesn't just reduce the overall grain quality; it also produces the volatile compounds responsible for its characteristic fishy smell. These compounds are released as the fungus develops within the plant.
Impact and Identification
The strong odor produced by stink blight makes it a distinctive and often early indicator of infection, sometimes even before widespread visual symptoms are apparent. For farmers and agricultural professionals, recognizing this unique smell can be a crucial first step in identifying and managing an outbreak.
Key characteristics of common bunt (stink blight):
- Smell: Emits an intense fishy odor.
- Type: A seed-borne fungal disease.
- Impact: Significantly reduces the quality of infected grains.
- Other Names: Also known as common bunt or wheat stone blight.
