Potato Leaf Roll Virus

Green peach aphids; a vector of leaf roll virusGreen peach aphids; a vector of leaf roll virus.
Foliar Symptoms of Leaf Roll VirusFoliar Symptoms of Leaf Roll Virus
Leaf chlorosis due to infectionLeaf chlorosis due to PLRV infection.
Potato plant with stunted growthPotato plant with stunted growth.

HOSTS

  • Potatoes

DESCRIPTION

Potato leaf roll virus (PLRV) is a pathogen in the genus Polerovirus. The disease affects potatoes worldwide, causing stunted growth and reducing yields.

BIOLOGY

PLRV can be introduced to an area through the use of infected seed tubers. Aphids that feed on the infected plant can carry the virus to other nearby hosts. Aphids spread the disease persistently, meaning after feeding on an infected plant they will carry it for life. 

SYMPTOMS

  • The plant will display stunted growth. 
  • Leaves will roll around the midrib. 
  • Leaves will yellow, becoming dry and leathery. 
  • Some potato varieties will have net necrosis, which is internal brown discoloration that radiates around the center. 

GENERAL MANAGEMENT

  • Use certified seed tubers.
  • Choose tuber varieties with resistance to PLRV.
  • Remove and destroy infected plants.
  • Manage weeds and volunteer potatoes that could serve as hosts for the disease.
  • Control aphid populations using IPM methods.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 













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