Potato Gangrene

Potato gangrene Common name Potato gangrene Causal agent Potato gangrene is a fungal disease caused by an aggressive fungal species, Phoma foveata. It usually attacks stored potatoes, resulting in a rotten surface and flesh of tubers. The commonly affected potato species include Shepody and Ulster Sceptre. Scientific name Phoma foveata Symptoms & Signs Potato gangrene is usually identified through dark gray to brown depressions on the surface of the tubers. The lesions continue growing, forming ridges and wrinkles throughout the surface, resembling thumb impressions. It also exhibits white or yellow mycelial growth on the inner surface, surrounded by a dark brown or black margin. Transmission Harvests stored in cold storage, or those delayed by cold weather, are more prone to getting infected. The fungus infects the tuber, which transmits the disease to the surrounding tubers during transit, storage, or handling. Infected tools can also transfer the disease to healthy crops. Time of concern Winters, especially during December and January Common hosts Potatoes