These corn images show complete and partial replacement of tassel on tillers as an example of abnormal corn development. Photos by Osler Ortez and Robert Nielsen.
Justin McMechan, assistant professor of entomology (at right), is a co-author to a journal article that was named the 2023 Outstanding Paper Award in the Agronomy Journal. The article is titled "Conditions potentially affecting corn ear formation, yield, and abnormal ears: A review." The co-authors are Osler A. Ortez, A. Justin McMechan, Thomas Hoegemeyer, Ignacio A. Ciampitti, Robert L. Nielsen, Peter R. Thomison and Roger W. Elmore.
While researchers have a good understanding on why many corn ears develop abnormally, there were occurrences during the 2016 growing season that stretched the researchers' understanding of the phenomenon. Because of these outlying cases, the scientists decided to review the literature to identify symptoms, causes, and developmental timing of abnormal corn ears.
Their abstract explained that "Abnormal ear development can be seen as the response to complex interactions among genetics, environment, and management practices. Ear abnormalities are detrimental to grain yield and quality, and their mitigation is imperative to efficient corn systems, crop resiliency, and sustainability."
Congratulations, Justin and co-authors!
The full article may be read at https://acsess.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/cft2.20173.