Strengthening the management of the potato purple top complex in the Andean Region

The project focuses on addressing the potato purple top compex (PPTC/CPMP Spanish acronym) problem in the Andean Region (AR), where the potato plays a fundamental role in the diet of millions of people as well as in the contribution to the agricultural sector economy. The PPTC includes the bacteria Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum (CaLso), phytoplasmas and the potato psyllid (Bactericera cockerelli) that acts as a vector. This complex represents a serious threat to potato crops in the AR. The project proposes to learn more about the situation of the PPTC through a diagnosis in the region with the countries involved in the proposal. In addition, the molecular detection of the plant pathogens and the PPTC management strategies will be optimized, and the results generated will be disseminated to the actors of the potato value chain. At least 1,730 farmers and 370 technicians and other actors in the sector will directly benefit from training, dissemination activities and access to clean seed. The project establishes three components: i) prepare a regional diagnosis of the PPTC problem, through online events with experts and the collection of information through surveys with key actors in the value chain; ii) optimize molecular detection protocols and PPTC management strategies. This includes training laboratory workers in molecular analysis techniques, evaluation of methodologies for the detection of pathogens and disease management practices. It is expected to generate optimized laboratory protocols and technical publications on PPTC management and access to clean seed; iii) disseminate the knowledge generated about PPTC management. This involves strengthening the capacities of value chain actors, organizing training events and implementing learning plots in the field. The development of scientific events, training for laboratory workers and bibliographic material is planned, as well as dissemination and closing events to report the results of the project. Through the project's intervention, a 25% increase in yield is expected, along with a 15-20% reduction in pesticide expenditure for PPTC management, and a 50% decrease in the use of high environmental impact pesticides. In addition, greater knowledge of the PPTC is expected to prevent expansion to new areas or countries.