Ecuador: Researchers analyze solutions to combat purple top disease in potatoes
During the day, INIAP specialists explained that purple tip is a disease caused by phytoplasmas transmitted by insect vectors, primarily Bactericera cockerelli.
The Santa Catalina Experimental Station of the National Institute of Agricultural Research (INIAP) hosted a technical and scientific event that brought together more than 150 participants, including producers, farmers, and sector technicians, to present the latest advances in the management of purple top disease in potato crops, a problem that continues to significantly affect the yield and quality of the tuber in the country.
A persistent threat to production
During the event, INIAP specialists explained that purple top disease is caused by phytoplasmas transmitted by insect vectors, primarily Bactericera cockerelli. This pest compromises normal plant development, causing leaf curling and discoloration. These symptoms impair the quality of the final product and can even lead to total crop loss if not detected and managed promptly.
Comprehensive approach and practical solutions
The event focused on disseminating integrated management strategies, highlighting the importance of a technical, preventative, and sustainable approach to mitigating the spread of the disease. Among the key recommendations presented were:
Constant monitoring using yellow traps to detect the early presence of the vector.
Use of certified seed to prevent transmission of the pathogen through the infected tuber.
Implementation of integrated crop management, which includes:
Biological control, promoting the use of natural enemies of the vector.
Crop rotation and elimination of host plants that can serve as reservoirs for the pest.
Selective application of insecticides, with alternating active ingredients, to prevent vector resistance.
Regional projection: Latin American Potato Congress
As part of its commitment to the agricultural sector, INIAP announced the organization of the Latin American Potato Congress, which will soon be held as a meeting place for experts, researchers, and producers from across the region. The congress’s objective will be to foster knowledge exchange and promote innovative and sustainable strategies that boost the productivity and resilience of potato cultivation in Latin America.
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