Sugarcane mosaic.

This chapter presents the taxonomy, distribution, genetic diversity, disease symptoms, host range, transmission, economic importance, detection and control of Sugarcane mosaic virus which infects maize and sugarcane, as well as provide some insights into its evolution. Efforts to obtain resistance through classical breeding and transgenic approaches are also described. It is concluded that the development of resistance against this virus needs more research, particularly on the Scmv1/Rscmv1 and Scmv2/Rscmv2 regions of chromosomes 6 and 3, respectively. To minimize the impacts of SCMV on maize and sugarcane production, further research into innovative diagnostic techniques as well as new recommendations for managing the disease are suggested.