Characterization of potato genotypes for resistance to Diabrotica speciosa

Abstract

The potato a crop is attacked by many pests, among which the Diabrotica speciosa (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is considered the main one. Because of chemical control failures associated with the requirements of integrated potato production (IPP) requiring sustainable measures, aimed to characterize advanced clones breeding program of Embrapa for resistance to insect infestation in artificial conditions. Tests were performed in a greenhouse without choice of plants and tubers of four clones of Embrapa (C2337-06-02, C2337-18-02, C2342-1-02, C2362-02-02), a standard-resistant clone (NYL 235-4) and a susceptible standard cultivar (Asterix). Results of susceptibility of 'Asterix' and resistance of 'NYL 235-4' and 'C2342-1-02', both in shoots and in tubers, predominated. Thus indicating a typical behavior of tolerance of 'NYL 235-4' and 'C2337-06-02' to insect attack, both in the shoots and in the tubers. Clones C2337-06-02 and C2362-02-02 which expressed resistance to the attack of the young stage of the insect in the tubers. Three potato genotypes derived from the wild species Solanum berthaultii (NYL 235-4, C2337-06-02, C2362-02-02) even under infestation of D. speciosa, showed agronomic traits determinants of greater commercial acceptance of tubers such as maintaining productivity, elongated, skin smoothness and shallower depth of the eye (vegetative bud).