Distribution of the root rot fungus involved in Poor Root Syndrome in canefields from Ingham to Rocky Point

Originally, PRS was called Northern Poor Root Syndrome (NPRS) because it was found only from Ingham onwards. In 1983, however, root systems affected by the RRF were located in the Mackay district, suggesting the need for a survey to determine its distribution throughout Queensland canefields. A survey conducted in 1980 in northern mill areas indicated that the RRF was widespread through Babinda, South Johnstone, Mourilyan, and Goondi mill areas. Infected root systems were also located in the Mossman, Hambledon, Mulgrave, Tully, Macknade, and Victoria mill areas. In 1984 and early 1985, a survey of mill areas from Ingham to Rocky Point was undertaken with the assistance of BSES extension officers and Cane Pest and Disease Control Board personnel. This paper describes the results from that survey.