The occurrence of the A2 mating type of Phytophthora infestans in the Netherlands; significance and consequences

Abstract

Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary, the causal agent of potato late blight, was first discovered in Europe in 1845. Until 1980, only A1 mating type isolates were known to occur in Europe. The absence of A2 mating type isolates restrained the fungus from sexual reproduction. In the early 1980s, A2 mating type isolates were discovered in Europe. Presumably, a new introduction ofP. infestans isolates originating from Mexico had taken place. In this paper, the significance of the presence of A1 and A2 mating type isolates in the Netherlands is reviewed. Now that both mating types are present, sexual reproduction can occur and its consequences for the control of potato late blight are discussed.