Evaluating the Plant based Volatile 2E-hexenal for the Sustainable Management of Pink Rot in Stored Potatoes
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Phytophthora erythroseptica , the causal agent of pink rot, is a significant threat to potato production, leading to yield losses and postharvest decay. Conventional management strategies rely on fungicides like phosphorous acid, but increasing consumer demand for reduced fungicide inputs and alternatives necessitates new control methods. This study evaluates the efficacy of 2 E -hexenal, a naturally occurring volatile organic compound, in inhibiting P. erythroseptica in vitro and in storage. In vitro experiments demonstrated that 2 E -hexenal was fungitoxic and completely inhibited pathogen growth at a minimum concentration of 5 µL/L, while lower concentrations exhibited fungistatic effects. Large-scale storage trials were conducted between 2016 and 2023 to assess the fumigant potential of 2 E -hexenal on infected tubers. Initial trials showed no significant reductions in disease incidence and severity. However, subsequent experiments demonstrated that 2 E -hexenal treatments significantly reduced disease progression. In the 2020 season-long storage trial, disease incidence in untreated tubers reached 100%, whereas treated tubers maintained up to 75% lower disease incidence rates. The 2023 trial confirmed these findings, with 2 E -hexenal reducing disease severity by an average of 75% compared to untreated controls. These results suggest that 2 E -hexenal is a promising alternative for managing pink rot in stored potatoes. Its ability to reduce disease incidence and severity over extended storage periods highlights its potential for integration into postharvest disease management strategies. Further research is needed to optimize application methods and confirm efficacy across different storage conditions.
Authors: Phillip S. Wharton, Katie L. Malek, Alan Malek
Institution: University of Idaho
Language: English
Subfield: Plant Science
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,090
OpenAlex ID: W7117010653