Rubbery rot

 

Tubers are damp and feel rubbery when squeezed. The skin of affected tubers may have tufts of grey or white mycelia. Often the whole tuber is affected but where the tuber is partially infected the skin shows irregular brown patches with dark margins. Cut tubers exude water and may have a vinegary, sour milk smell the flesh has a rubbery texture and may turn a dirty pink or grey colour after a few hours. Advanced rots may have lens shaped cavities. There are no haulm symptoms.

 

Diseased tubers are frequently missed at loading as the distribution can be sporadic (often an infected plant has only one infected tuber). The problem might first be noticed in store due a fishy smell and a dark exudate.

 

 

Rubbery rot is most associated with waterlogged soils and warm conditions approaching harvest.

 

 

Control is best tackled in the field by ensuring adequate soil drainage. If rubbery rot infection is suspected, store separately and monitor