Review of sweet potato diseases in PNG

摘要

In this paper, we review the diseases of sweet potato in PNG. Although many sweet potato diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses, mycoplasma-like organisms (MLOs) and parasitic nematodes have been described, there has been very little research on these important diseases in PNG. Some work has previously been reported on sweet potato scab and, to a lesser extent, little leaf MLO and nematode infections. Whilst the distribution of most of the important diseases appears to be widespread and increasing, the impact of these diseases on cultivation of sweet potato is sporadic and location-specific. The importance of sweet potato disease depends upon production systems and the use of the crop. The cultural techniques of cultivating sweet potato are diverse and have a great influence on disease development and spread. These techniques have changed, or are changing, in some parts of PNG. Disease surveys and epidemiology are priority areas for future research to develop suitable preventive strategies in a variety of different production systems. Intensive cultivation of sweet potato, land shortage, increasing population pressure, and improved transportation are some factors that will contribute to future increases in disease spread and severity.