RBM134: A mutant of Russet Burbank susceptible to blackspot bruise

A radiation induced mutant of Russet Burbank was recovered that is more susceptible to blackspot bruise than the original cultivar. The mutant was evaluated and characterized for several agronomic and biochemical traits. Compared to Russet Burbank the mutant had slightly lower tuber yield, smaller average tuber weight, a higher number of tubers per plant, higher percent tuber dry matter, similar total tuber dry matter yield, lower tuber protein and higher free tyrosine content. Vine growth and appearance was indistinguishable from Russet Burbank. This mutant should provide an excellent tool for better understanding the tuber characteristics contributing to blackspot bruising in potatoes.