welt.de
Fungicide Resistance Threatens German Potato and Tomato Crops
Potato late blight, caused by Phytophthora infestans, threatens German potato and tomato crops due to increasing fungicide resistance; yield losses of 15–25% are possible, necessitating diverse control strategies.
- What is the immediate impact of increasing fungicide resistance on potato and tomato production in Germany?
- Potato late blight, caused by the fungus Phytophthora infestans, threatens potato and tomato crops globally. In Germany, while fungicides currently offer control, increasing resistance poses a significant challenge, potentially leading to substantial yield losses. This is especially concerning given the historical impact of this disease, such as the Irish Potato Famine.
- How do climate conditions and agricultural practices contribute to the spread and severity of potato late blight?
- The disease spreads through spores, impacting leaves, stems, and tubers, leading to crop failure if left untreated. Favorable conditions include high humidity and dense planting, with outbreaks often originating from home gardens. Yield losses of 15-25% are possible, depending on weather and cultivation intensity.
- What long-term strategies are needed to mitigate the threat of potato late blight in light of evolving pathogen resistance and climate change?
- Fungicide resistance and the emergence of diverse Phytophthora infestans strains are hindering effective control. The breakdown of currently available fungicides necessitates exploring alternative strategies, including resistant crop varieties, improved crop rotation, and optimized planting and harvesting times. Failure to address these challenges could result in significantly increased crop losses and food insecurity.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames late blight as a serious threat, emphasizing the potential for significant crop losses and the challenges in controlling the disease. The use of phrases like "dangerous fungal disease" and "serious threat" sets a concerned tone from the beginning. While the article notes that current control methods are effective, the emphasis on resistance and potential failures leans towards a more negative framing.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral and factual. However, terms like "dangerous" and "serious threat" are used to describe the disease, which while accurate, could be considered slightly loaded. More neutral alternatives could include 'significant threat' or 'substantial risk'.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses on the threat of late blight to potato and tomato crops in Germany, but omits discussion of other crops susceptible to this disease or other plant diseases affecting food production. While acknowledging the impact on global food security through the mention of the Irish Potato Famine, it does not explore the broader implications for global food systems. The article also doesn't discuss potential economic consequences beyond yield losses or the societal impact on food prices and accessibility.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the threat of late blight to potato and tomato crops, which are significant food sources globally. The potential for increased crop failure due to fungicide resistance poses a risk to food security and could exacerbate hunger, especially in vulnerable populations. The mention of the Irish Potato Famine further emphasizes the historical impact of this disease on food availability and its potential to cause widespread famine.