Bacteriophages as a Biocontrol agent of Soft Rot in Potatoes

Authors

Trevor Hodson, Brigham Young University
Don Breakwell, Brigham Young University

Keywords

bacteriophages, biocontrol agent, soft rot in potatoes

College

Life Sciences

Department

Microbiology and Molecular Biology

Abstract

Pectobacterium carotovorum (Pcc) is a principle causative agent of soft rot in potatoes. It causes losses of up to 60% in potato yields in the USA (Mantsebo et. Al, 2014) and approximately $50-$100 million dollars’ worth of losses yearly in multiple types of crops. Because potatoes grow beneath the soil surface, there is no way of treating the potatoes until they are harvested. Even then, no postharvest methods of controlling this pathogen exist (Wood et. Al, 2013). A spray-able bacteriophage cocktail specific to Pcc could save millions of dollars-worth of crops each year by minimizing soft rot.

Recommended Citation

Hodson, Trevor and Breakwell, Don (2017) "Bacteriophages as a Biocontrol agent of Soft Rot in Potatoes," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2017: Iss. 1, Article 213.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2017/iss1/213