New outbreak of potato brown rot has been detected in Andalusia

A new outbreak of potato brown rot, caused by the bacterium Ralstonia solanacearum, has been confirmed in a field in Córdoba, Andalusia, Spain.

The Phytosanitary Alert and Information Network detected the disease in July after analyzing a sample at the Seville Official Laboratory and confirming the results using molecular techniques at the National Reference Laboratory.

This bacterium affects potato, tomato, and other solanaceous crops, posing a serious threat to agriculture. Symptoms include wilting, vascular browning, and exudates on tubers, requiring laboratory analysis for confirmation.

The disease thrives in high temperatures, excessive humidity, and nutrient-poor soils. It is primarily transmitted through infected tubers, contaminated water, and weeds. In 2022, a similar outbreak in Granada was linked to water from the Velillos River, resulting in a ban on its use for irrigating solanaceous crops. European regulations require the destruction of infected material and measures to prevent its spread.

Furthermore, the Junta de Andalucía (Andalusian Regional Government) offers financial compensation to farmers affected by the implemented phytosanitary measures.

Source: phytoma.com; Photo: panorama-agro.com