Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Seed-borne and foliar fungal pathogens induce specific necrotic spotting and discoloration syndromes on rice grains and leaves.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Stackburn disease (also known as seedling blight or Alternaria leaf spot of rice) is caused by the seed-borne fungus Alternaria padwickii (Ganguly) M.B. Ellis (formerly Trichoconis padwickii).
It produces round or oval lesions on leaves with dark brown borders and causes severe dark reddish-brown grain discoloration and seedling rot.
Rhizoctonia solani causes sheath blight, and Sarocladium oryzae causes sheath rot.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Hence, Stackburn disease in paddy is caused by Alternaria padwickii.