Pre- and postharvest measures used to control decay and mycotoxigenic fungi in potato (Solanum tuberosumL.) during storage

Potato (Solanum tuberosumL.), a worldwide, staple food crop, is susceptible to postharvest rots caused by a variety of fungal pathogens, includingFusariumspp.,Alternariaspp.,Phytophthora infestans,Helminthosporium solani,Rhizoctonia solani,andColletotrichum coccodes. Rots resulting from infections by these pathogens cause a significant reduction in potato quality and marketable yield. Importantly, some of these decay fungi also produce mycotoxins that represent a potential risk to human health. In the present review, an overview and discussion are provided on the epidemiology and pathogenesis of decay fungi, especiallyFusariumspp., that include recent data derived from genomic and phylogenetic analyses. The biosynthesis and functional role of fungitoxic metabolites such as trichothecene mycotoxins and fusaric acid, produced in rotted potatoes are also reviewed. Advances in pre- and postharvest measures for rot management, especially eco-friendly methods including physical control, biological control, the use of natural compounds, and other agricultural management practices are also reviewed. Lastly, novel approaches to control potato dry rot such as the use of mycoviruses and CRISPR technology are highlighted.