Potato Virus Y
Potato virus Y (PVY), Potyvirus
Virus
Leaves
Roots
Whole Plant
Overview
The most economically important virus of potatoes worldwide, also affecting peppers, tomatoes, and tobacco. Transmitted by aphids and through infected seed tubers.
Symptoms
Mild to severe mosaic on leaves. Leaf drop (stipple streak). Vein necrosis. Tuber necrotic ringspot (in some strains). Stunted growth. Reduced tuber size and yield.
Environmental Conditions
Variable
Prevention
Use certified virus-free seed potatoes. Plant resistant varieties. Control aphid vectors. Remove volunteer potatoes. Rogue out infected plants early.
Management
No cure. Remove infected plants. Use certified seed. Mineral oil sprays may reduce aphid transmission. Control aphids. Avoid planting near other solanaceous crops.