Active chemical nature and biochemical mode of action
Kasugamycin is an antibiotic fermentation metabolite belonging to the aminoglycoside antibiotic class, formulated as a 3% SL (soluble liquid).
It works by specifically binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit of target fungi and bacteria, inhibiting protein synthesis by interfering with aminoacyl-tRNA binding. This halts pathogen growth and prevents mycelial invasion into plant tissues.
- Active chemical: Kasugamycin 3% SL.
- Biochemical action: Protein synthesis inhibitor specifically targeting ribosomal translation in pathogens.
- Dual activity: Provides dependable control against both fungal blast pathogens and bacterial blight infections.
Target crops and approved disease spectrum
Kasugamycin is registered in India primarily for rice crop protection and select horticultural disease suppression.
It is celebrated for providing rapid curative kickback and systemic protection against all phases of rice blast.
- Paddy (Rice): Leaf blast, nodal blast, and neck blast (Pyricularia oryzae).
- Bacterial leaf blight: Suppresses bacterial leaf blight (Xanthomonas oryzae) in rice fields.
- Tomato: Bacterial canker and leaf spot complexes.
- Translaminar penetration: Rapidly absorbed by plant leaves and translocated to growing plant tips.
Application timing, spray techniques, and precautions
In paddy cultivation, apply Kasugamycin at the initial appearance of blast spindle spots on leaves or at boot leaf and 5% panicle emergence to safeguard against neck blast.
Ensure uniform foliar wetting using clean water at container label recommended concentrations.
- Blast management timing: Apply before panicle emergence to protect the delicate neck tissue from rotting and grain sterility.
- Safety profile: Favorable safety profile for beneficial organisms and minimal risk of mammalian toxicity.
- Personal protective equipment: Wear protective gloves, eye protection, and clean work clothes during preparation and application.
Official source
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ICAR - National Rice Research Institute ↗Related on KisanPe
Common questions
What type of agricultural chemical is Kasugamycin?
Kasugamycin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic fungicide and bactericide derived from Streptomyces kasugaensis.
Does Kasugamycin control neck blast in paddy?
Yes, spraying Kasugamycin at boot leaf and early heading stages provides exceptional protection against destructive neck blast.
How does Kasugamycin stop fungal and bacterial pathogens?
It inhibits protein synthesis by binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit, preventing the pathogen from multiplying and invading host tissues.
General guidance, not personal advice. For your farm, ask your local Krishi Vigyan Kendra or agriculture officer.
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