Potato virus Y



Potato virus Y (PVY) is a plant pathogenic virus of the family Potyviridae, and one of the most important plant viruses affecting commercial potato production. PVY infection of potato plants results in a variety of symptoms depending on the viral strain. The mildest of these symptoms is production loss, but the most detrimental is 'potato tuber necrotic ringspot disease' (PTNRD). PVY is transmissible by aphid vectors but may also remain dormant in seed potatoes. This means that using the same line of potato for production of seed potatoes for several consecutive generations will lead to a progressive increase in viral load and subsequent loss of crop.

Symptoms
Symptoms vary depending on the strain of PVY and the variety of plant. Symptoms may include :
 * Mosaic (as a Mosaic virus)
 * Mottling
 * Rapid death of infected area
 * Brittle leaves
 * Distorted leaves (wrinkled or rough appearance)

Treatment
Destroy infected plants at the first sign of symptoms before leaves touch adjacent plants. Infected seeds and tubers should be destroyed before contacting other plants

Prevention
Purchase certified seed. Disinfect equipment prior to making contact with seed. Good aphid control should be practiced. Avoid regular unnecessary contact with plants to avoid spread of pathogens and when plants are dry