Review of Sweet Potato Diseases and Research in Papua New Guinea.

Abstract

Diseases that have been recorded on sweet potato in Papua New Guinea are reviewed. Although many diseases of sweet potato caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses, phytoplasmas and nematodes have been recorded, very little work to date has been done on important diseases in the country. Sweet potato scab and, to a lesser extent, virus, little leaf and nematode problems received some attention in the past. The distribution of most of the important diseases appear, to be widespread or increasing, but the impact of the diseases on cultivation of sweet potato is sporadic or location specific. The importance of each disease depends on the production system and the intended use of the crop. Intensive cultivation of sweet potato associated with land shortage and increasing population pressure, and improved transportation, are some factors that will contribute to an increase in disease spread and severity of sweet potato diseases in the future. The cultural techniques for 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 the country. Disease surveys and epidemiology are priority areas for research in future to develop suitable disease control strategies in various production systems.