Viruses are some of the most economically damaging diseases affecting potatoes and a major reason for crops failing seed certification. This is our standard growing on test for PVY (all strains) and costs £320 + VAT*. Understanding what virus loading is in the seed to be planted is critical in managing crop outcomes. As these viruses are predominantly aphid transmitted, the use of Fera's insect monitoring service will help understand the risks and provide vital information for the consideration of treatments.

*Off peak season testing price for March to August inclusive.

Other strains/viruses that can be analysed include; PLRV, PVYO, PVYN, PVA, PVV, PVX, PVM, PVS and PMTV. Each additional virus/strain adds £87 (excl. VAT) to the total cost. If you require additional viruses to be tested with PVY - you must select the relevant test denoting how many viruses you would like testing. When you have selected the correct number of viruses you require but must specify in the Notes section which viruses you want when adding in your sample information.

PVY

Potato virus Y is transmitted by aphids and may cause significant yield loss and damage such as cracking and external necrosis across a range of potato varieties. The severity of impact is related to the strain, timing, and varietal susceptibility. The common or ordinary strain of PVY (PVYO) causes a systemic mottle in potatoes and tobacco. Isolates of PVY that cause systemic veinal necrosis in tobacco belong to the PVYN strain group, which produces milder symptoms in potato than does PVYO.

PLRV

Potato leafroll virus is transmitted by aphids. Symptoms include leaf curling and necrosis, which dramatically impacts yield and quality.

PVA

Potato virus A is also aphid-transmitted and can result in yield reduction in susceptible varieties, especially when in combination with other plant viruses.

PVV

PVV is transmitted by aphids.  Many varieties are resistant to this virus however, in susceptible varieties subtle visual symptoms make this virus difficult to detect which can result in large scale infection if not managed correctly.

PVX

PVX is contact transmitted. Although some potato varieties are resistant to PVX, when in combination with a range of other viruses severe symptoms can be found.

When sending plant pathogens and invertebrate samples from outside England and Wales for testing please email the Crop health team (crophealth@fera.co.uk) who will issue you with the relevant Letter of Authority to ensure your samples are not delayed upon entry to the UK.