Work

Potato black scurf and stem canker: Pathogen biology, global distribution, traditional and modern diagnostics

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Rhizoctonia solani is a soil- and seed-borne fungus, manifesting as black scurf and stem canker disease, resulting in substantial yield and quality losses globally. This fungus reproduces asexually through hyphae and sclerotia. Its genetic diversity is organized into 14 anastomosis groups (AGs), with AG3-PT being the predominant group on potato. Global trade of seed potatoes, though vital for agricultural development, inadvertently transmits the pathogen across regions. Disease development is influenced by environmental and agronomic factors, leading to severe outbreaks and economic impact. Accurate diagnosis is challenging due to the pathogen's genetic complexity, necessitating a transition from traditional culture-based and biochemical methods to molecular, genomic, and emerging digital technologies. Methods such as PCR, isothermal amplification, sequencing, sensor-based biosensing, and AI-driven imaging have improved the detection, quantification, and non-invasive monitoring of the pathogen. Combining these diagnostic methods into a tiered framework provides prospects for efficient disease surveillance, informed management decisions, and sustainable potato production systems.

Source: Plant Disease

DOI: 10.1094/pdis-10-25-2158-fe

Authors: Aqleem Abbas, Yanyin Guo, Nana Ji, Huihui Xu, Shanshan Hao

Institution: Shandong University of Technology

Language: English

Topic: Plant Disease Resistance and Genetics

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: National Natural Science Foundation of China, Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province