The cyst-forming species Globodera rostochiensis and Globodera pallida, as well as Ditylenchus destructor, are of greatest economic importance. The golden nematode is represented by pathotypes Ro1–Ro5, of which Ro1 is most common in Russia, while the pale nematode is characterized by pathotypes Pa1–Pa3. Infection with cyst-forming nematodes causes the formation of wilting patches, excessive root branching, and the appearance of small cysts. The potato tuber nematode attacks stolons and tubers, causing the appearance of lead-gray sunken spots and the destruction of tissues into a loose, powdery mass.
In breeding programs, specific resistance genes are used to control these pathogens. The H1 and Gro1-4 genes provide protection against golden potato nematode pathotypes Ro1 and Ro4, while the Gpa2 gene controls resistance to pale nematode pathotype Pa2. To confirm the presence of these genes and identify resistant cultivars, marker-assisted selection methods are employed using specific DNA markers, such as TG 689 and Gpa 2-2.
General information about the subject — on the page
Nematodes.