Bird’s Eye Spot is a common leaf disease that primarily affects young rubber plants in nurseries, reducing their growth rate and overall vitality.
Although it rarely causes large-scale mortality, it can significantly slow down seedling development, making it an important disease to manage during the nursery stage.
Symptoms and Identification
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The disease is caused by the fungus Drechslera heveae (Petch) M.B. Ellis, and sometimes by related species such as Helminthosporium heveae (Petch) M.B. Ellis or Bipolaris heveae (Petch) Von Arx.
It mainly occurs in seedling nurseries, especially in low-lying, nutrient-poor soils during the dry season (November–April).
Typical Symptoms:
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Distinct lesions resembling “bird’s eyes,” measuring 1–3 mm in diameter, with a white or light gray center and a well-defined brown margin.
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Lesions appear on the leaf blade, often spreading rapidly under dry and windy conditions.
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On young leaves, the disease causes leaf deformation and premature leaf fall (leaflets drop one by one).
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On mature leaves, the lesions remain visible throughout leaf development but do not cause defoliation.
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Shoot tips of infected plants often become swollen and distorted, affecting overall growth.
Recommended Fungicides and Control Measures
To effectively prevent and control Bird’s Eye Spot disease, apply one of the following fungicides:
| Active Ingredient | Commercial Products | Concentration |
|---|---|---|
| Carbendazim | Vicarben 50SC, Carbenzim 500FL, Carbenvil 50SC, Glory 50SC | 0.2% |
| Hexaconazole | Anvil 5SC, Hexin 5SC, Vivil 5SC, Saizole 5SC | 0.2% |
| Carbendazim + Hexaconazole | Arivit 250SC, Vixazol 275SC | 0.2% |
| Carbendazim + Mancozeb | CaMa 750WP | 0.2% |
For best results, mix with sticking agent BDNH 2000 at a 0.2% concentration to enhance leaf surface coverage and rain resistance.
Application Notes:
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Spray preventively in nursery and seedling gardens, especially before or during disease onset in the dry season.
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Maintain good field hygiene by removing infected leaves and controlling weeds.
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Ensure adequate irrigation and fertilization to improve plant vigor and resistance.
Conclusion
Bird’s Eye Spot disease, caused by Drechslera heveae and related fungi, is a major nursery-stage disease in rubber cultivation.
Early detection and preventive fungicide applications are crucial to protect young seedlings and ensure healthy plantation establishment.
By combining proper nursery management, soil care, and regular disease monitoring, growers can minimize infection risk and promote vigorous, disease-free rubber seedlings.