Vol. 11, Issue 11 (2022)

Author(s):
Babli, Dwarka, Pushpendra Singh Yadav, Sheeren Parveen, Vijay Kumar Katara and Shobharam Thakur

Abstract:
One of the most dramatic episodes induced by a plant pathogen in human history was the late blight of the potato caused by the fungus Phytophthora infestans, which was responsible for the famine in Ireland(1845). Famine in Ireland claimed the lives of one million people. Therefore, it is essential to achieve eco-friendly methods potato late blight disease management. Due to the rapid spread of late blight outbreaks in recent years, management efforts have solely focused on the application of fungicides. Fungicide use, however, poses a major risk to both the environment and public health when used carelessly. Additionally, it causes the pathogen to develop a resistance and has a negative impact on helpful species including nitrogen fixers, resident antagonists and mycorrhizal fungi. Therefore, environmentally friendly methods for managing late blight are needed as a top priority in order to reduce the usage of fungicides. Most recently, Late blight fungal isolates have undergone considerable modifications, including variations in how aggressive they are toward the crop. Since late blight affects the entire community, all producers, farmers, gardeners and growers must implement an efficient, environmentally friendly management strategy with the assistance of governmental organizations, extension specialists, crop consultants, etc. The first line of defense in this situation is disease management through cultural practices and the efficient, effective and environmentally friendly management of late blight of potatoes depends on forecasting system, physiological strategies, biological control, host plant resistance and bio-technological approach.