Finding resistances in wild potatoes

What resistances to diseases and pests can be found in wild potato varieties? Wageningen University & Research (WUR) is going to investigate. The aim is to make new breeding material available that can be used to develop disease-free potato varieties.

In recent years, efforts have been made to combat potato blight (Phytophthora infestans) by developing resistant varieties. As a result, the use of crop protection products should decrease sharply in the coming years. However, fewer resources, in combination with more extreme temperature and precipitation differences due to climate change, will lead to an increase in other diseases and pests, according to WUR.

Pathogens
Until now, little attention has been paid to the causes of these diseases and pests (bacteria, fungi, viruses, nematodes and insects). WUR will investigate wild potato varieties for resistance to these pathogens. A number of useful wild species have already been found in an initial analysis. These are being further investigated.

The research is being carried out on behalf of Holland Innovative Potato (HIP) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality (LNV). Within HIP, companies from the breeding, trade and processing have united to conduct joint research into a more sustainable potato chain. The affiliated breeding companies use the results of this research to develop new varieties.

Jeanette Pennings

Jeannet has her roots in the flower bulb sector and she grew up on an agricultural company in the northern part of North Holland. As a generalist she reports for Boerenbusiness across all sectors. She is also exploring the possibilities of sponsored advertising.

j.pennings@boerenbusiness. Nl

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