Mosaic viruses of potato
Many viruses are difficult to distinguish from one another based on symptoms alone. In addition, for
each particular disease, symptoms will vary greatly depending on stage of plant at time of infection and
other factors. In general, virus symptoms consist of various leaf and plant deformities, stunting and
poor growth, or yellowing or mosaic or mottling pattern in the leaves. Leaves may be crinkled or wavy.
Dry, corky areas or necrotic streaks may be present. Identification of the particular pathogenic agent
can only be made with serological, inoculation, or other laboratory tests.
Life cycle
SolutionsControl weeds as some may serve as alternate hosts for virus. Buy and plant virus-free seed or seed tubers.
Some varieties may show resistance. After symptoms on plants occur, there is no practical control. Aluminum
foil mulches or row
covers may help prevent infection by aphid-transmitted viruses. Plants showing symptoms
near harvest are edible. |
Yellow
mottling of alfalfa mosaic virus
Mosaic
and yellowing of potato mosaic virus
|
