Fusarium dry rot

Symptoms:

• External Symptoms: Fusarium dry rot, caused by various Fusarium spp., primarily manifests as a dry, powdery rot on the surface of potatoes.
• Internal Symptoms: Internally, affected potatoes often show a brown to reddish-brown discoloration and may exhibit a dry, corky texture.

2. Disease Cycle:

• Infection: The pathogen usually enters potatoes through wounds or natural openings.
• Spread: Infected potatoes can serve as a source of inoculum, and the disease may spread during storage.
• Favorable Conditions: Warm temperatures and high humidity contribute to the development and spread of Fusarium dry rot.

3. Identification:

• External Signs: External symptoms include the presence of a dry, powdery decay on the surface of stored potatoes.
• Internal Examination: Internally, affected potatoes may show discoloration and dry, corky tissues.
• Fungal Structures: Microscopic examination may reveal characteristic fungal structures, aiding in accurate identification.

4. Management:

• Preventive Measures: Minimizing wounds during harvest and handling is crucial to prevent entry points for the pathogen.
• Storage Conditions: Maintaining proper storage conditions, including cool temperatures and adequate ventilation, helps inhibit the development and spread of Fusarium dry rot.
• Resistant Varieties: Planting potato varieties resistant to Fusarium dry rot can be an effective strategy.
• Fungicide Application: In some cases, fungicides may be used as a preventive measure during storage.

5. Importance:

• Economic Impact: Fusarium dry rot can result in economic losses due to the reduction in marketable yield and quality of stored potatoes.
• Global Distribution: The disease is prevalent in potato-growing regions worldwide.

6. Storage Management:

• Regular Monitoring: Regularly inspect stored potatoes for signs of Fusarium dry rot.
• Cull and Remove: Promptly remove any infected or damaged potatoes to prevent the spread of the disease.
• Proper Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in storage facilities to maintain optimal conditions.

7. Integrated Pest Management (IPM):

• Crop Rotation: Implementing a crop rotation strategy can help break the disease cycle.
• Sanitation: Proper sanitation practices, including the removal of crop residues, can reduce inoculum.
• Post-Harvest Treatments: Applying appropriate post-harvest treatments or fungicides during storage can be part of an integrated management approach.