cornsmut
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A type of smut fungus that specifically infects maize (Indian corn), causing a disease characterized by the formation of large, distorted, and often dark-colored galls on the ears, kernels, tassels, or stalks of the plant.
Usage
- Noun:
- The farmer was concerned about the cornsmut spreading through his crop.
- Cornsmut can significantly reduce the yield of an infected maize field.
Advanced Usage
- "Cornsmut infection": Refers to the condition or process of the fungus attacking the corn plant.
- Researchers are studying ways to control cornsmut infection.
- In a culinary context: In some cuisines, particularly Mexican (where it is called ), the infected kernels are considered a delicacy.
- The chef sourced fresh cornsmut to prepare the traditional dish.
Variants and Related Words
- Ustilago maydis: The scientific name for the fungus that causes cornsmut.
- Smut: A general term for various plant diseases caused by fungi of the order Ustilaginales, characterized by sooty spore masses.
- Huitlacoche: The Nahuatl-derived name for the edible form of the fungus, used especially in Mexican cooking.
Synonyms
- Maize smut
- Common smut of corn
Related Phrases
- To be infected with smut: Describes a plant that has the disease.
- Several plants in the row appeared to be infected with smut.
Noun
- a smut fungus attacking Indian corn