A comparison of some methods for detecting potato leaf roll virus in potato tubers in Israel

Summary The results obtained by four methods for detecting PLRV in potato tubers grown in Israel were compared with the results obtained by aphid transmission to test plants. The correlation coefficients for potatoes lifted in July (seed for autumn) and September (seed for spring) were: Igel-Lange test, 0.18 and 0.25; datura grafting with tuber sprouts, 0.71 and 0.63; aphid transmission from sprouts to test plants, 0.89 and 0.81; and visual assessment in the Florida test (for spring seed), Up-to-Date 0.58, Blanka 0.67 and Désirée 0.33. The Igel-Lange test proved unreliable; datura grafting is time consuming and PLRV symptoms were similar to reactions ofDatura stramonium to wounding and to stress. The results of the Florida test were somewhat variable and were obtained too late. The sprout test was deemed the most suitable as it is accurate and the results can be obtained within two months. Contribution No 156-E, 1979 series, Volcani Center.