ARS | Publication request: VARIETY SUSCEPTIBILILTY TO LEAFROLL NET NECROSIS

Submitted to: Potato Grower of Idaho
Publication Type: Trade Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: March 1, 1997
Publication Date: N/A

Interpretive Summary: The 1996 growing season presented serious problems with leafroll net necrosis for Idaho potato growers. Net necrosis is a symptom of infection with the potato leafroll virus that appears as an unsightly discoloration in the potato tuber. It is graded as a defect since it is unacceptable both for fresh consumers and for the frozen french fry producers. This article summarizes research results of testing varieties and advanced breeding selections for resistance to net necrosis. The variety Ranger Russet and several new breeding selections that are about to be released as new varieties by USDA and cooperating northwest universities are very resistant to this problem.

Technical Abstract: Leafroll net necrosis is a serious defect of potatoes. Some varieties are very susceptible such as Russet Burbank, while others are resistant such as Ranger Russet. Advanced breeding selections and standard varieties have been tested for susceptibility to net necrosis in field trials using leafroll infected spreader plants and natural transmission by green peach aphids. Of the major varieties grown in the Pacific Northwest, Russet Burbank is most susceptible followed by Shepody. Russet Nakotah is moderately resistant and Ranger is resistant. Of the advanced breeding selections, A082611-7 (Umatilla Russet) and A81473-2 (Bannock Russet) are most resistant; and C0083008-1 (Russet Legend) is susceptible.