Potato Mop-Top Virus: A Rising Threat to Potato Production Worldwide

Potato mop-top virus and powdery scab disease complex are rapidly becoming a significant issue in all potato growing regions in the United States. Infection by the virus causes necrotic lesions inside the tuber. In contrast, the disease vector causes lesions on the outside of the tuber rendering the potatoes unmarketable to both the fresh market and processing industries. Effective and sustainable management of the diseases requires a greater understanding of the virus-vector interaction and integrated control methods for the virus and its vector.