Characterization of microorganisms associated with potato tuber rots

Abstract

Potato tuber rots are one of the major causes of post-harvest losses worldwide and are commonly associated with both fungal and bacterial pathogens. Dry rot is primarily caused by several species of the genus Fusarium, whereas soft rot is mainly associated with Pectobacterium and Dickeya genera. Infected tubers can contribute to the persistence and spread of these pathogens in storage facilities and agricultural systems. A comprehensive understanding of the diversity of microorganisms associated with potato tuber rot is essential for the development of effective disease management strategies. The aim of the present study was to isolate and identify microorganisms associated with dry rot and soft rot of potato tubers from the active collection of local potato germplasm maintained at the National Gene Bank of the Institute of Genetics, Physiology and Plant Protection.