Potato Virus Y (PVY) is one of the most economically significant viruses affecting global potato production, leading to yield losses and reduced tuber quality. The suppression of PVY relies on rigorous seed potato certification schemes that integrate ongoing surveillance, advanced diagnostics, and strict phytosanitary controls. By implementing systematic field inspections, seed crop testing, and virus-free seed multiplication protocols, certification schemes minimise the risk of PVY spread and ensure the production of high-quality seed potatoes.
Surveillance in seed certification involves regular visual assessments by trained inspectors, complemented by molecular (PCR) diagnostics to detect latent infections. Certification schemes enforce strict tolerance thresholds for PVY in different seed classes, ensuring that only low-virus or virus-free seed enters commercial production. Additionally, vector management strategies, including aphid monitoring and control, play a crucial role in limiting virus transmission and further reducing disease risk. These combined efforts have contributed to improving seed quality and reducing the prevalence of PVY
The adoption of molecular diagnostics, particularly PCR testing, to detect latent infections that would otherwise go unnoticed during visual inspections has been critical. Traditional assessment methods, while effective, can sometimes fail to identify asymptomatic infections, particularly in early stages of disease development. By incorporating routine laboratory testing into the seed certification process, infected plants can be identified.
In addition to enhanced detection capabilities, early-generation seed multiplication has played a key role in limiting PVY transmission. By propagating seed potatoes under controlled, virus-free conditions, the risk of introducing PVY into commercial production is significantly reduced. This, combined with strict certification standards, ensures that the foundation seed stock remains of the highest health status, ultimately benefiting growers by providing disease-free planting material.
With repeated surveillance over several years, PVY levels have significantly declined, demonstrating the effectiveness of seed certification efforts. Data from the AuSPICA certification scheme indicates that the overall rejection rate of seed crops due to virus has dropped to a record low, underscoring the success of stringent monitoring and control measures. This reduction in virus prevalence has translated into higher yields, improved tuber quality, and greater economic returns for growers.
Beyond disease control, the success of PVY suppression through seed certification has broader implications for biosecurity and international trade. Certified seed systems help limit the spread of quarantine and emerging pathogens, ensuring that seed exports meet the phytosanitary requirements of importing countries. This contributes to market access and strengthens the global reputation of seed certification schemes as a vital component of plant health management.
Overall, the suppression of PVY through seed certification highlights the importance of ongoing investment in plant health diagnostics, biosecurity measures, and seed system integrity. By combining advanced diagnostic tools, robust surveillance frameworks, and industry collaboration, seed potato certification schemes continue to serve as a critical defense against viral threats, ensuring the sustainability and productivity of potato farming. Moving forward, further research and innovation in virus management strategies will be essential to maintaining the long-term success of these efforts and safeguarding global potato production.