Molecular detection of phytoplasmas in potato psyllids in Ecuador

Since the potato purple top appeared and the potato psyllid was reported in Ecuador, crop losses have been significant. So far, phytoplasmas enclosed in two ribosomal groups (16SrI-F, 16SrII) and ‘Candidatus Liberibacter solanacearum’ were molecularly identified in symptomatic potato plants. Later, Bactericera cockerelli, a potato psyllid, was also first reported and correlated to the potato purple top disease. Molecular identification of the pathogens involved in this disease has been quite elusive. Samples of potato psyllids were analyzed in this study resulting in the identification of phytoplasmas enclosed in group 16SrXI, and others related to ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma prunorum’ and ‘Ca. P. solani’. Potato purple top in Ecuador is a complex disease that constitutes a severe threat for the potato production in the region.