Dynamics of organisms harming the potato crop in the year 2024 in the conditions of central Moldova, Romania

Abstract

Potato yield is diminished by a wide range of pathogens and pests that affect plants throughout the growing season. The research was carried out at ARDS Secuieni, where, in 2024, a potato experience was established that included monitoring pests and diseases in this crop. The climatic conditions from March to August characterized the analyzed period as extremely hot and dry. The species Leptinotarsa decemlineata and the pathogen Phytophthora infestans affected the potato crops. The L. decemlineata population density was from 4 adults/m2 to 47.5 adults/m2, and the number of larvae varied between 25 and 50 larvae/m2. The L. decemlineata attack produced by adults and larvae on potato plants was between 0.7% (first part of June) and 22.3% (mid-July). The pathogen P. infestans produced attacks between 7.9% and 27.6% of potato crops.