Late blight of potato is a disease caused by bacteria.

Caused by Bacteria:
Late blight of potato is caused by the bacterium called Phytophthora infestans. This bacterium is responsible for one of the most devastating plant diseases affecting potato crops worldwide.

Late Blight of Potato:
Late blight of potato is a highly destructive disease that affects potato plants and can cause significant yield losses. It is characterized by the appearance of dark, water-soaked lesions on the leaves, stems, and tubers of the potato plants. These lesions often have a fuzzy or moldy appearance due to the presence of the bacteria.

Spread and Impact:
Late blight is a highly contagious disease that spreads rapidly under favorable conditions such as cool and moist weather. The bacteria can survive in infected plant debris and soil, as well as in infected tubers. Wind, rain, and irrigation water can also aid in the spread of the bacteria.

The disease can have a severe impact on potato crops, leading to reduced yields and quality. Infected tubers can rot and become unmarketable, resulting in economic losses for farmers. In severe cases, entire fields of potato plants can be destroyed if the disease is not properly managed.

Control Measures:
Managing late blight of potato involves a combination of cultural, chemical, and biological control measures. Crop rotation, removal of infected plant debris, and proper sanitation practices can help reduce the spread of the bacteria. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease, but their effectiveness can vary depending on the strain of the bacteria and the timing of application.

Conclusion:
Late blight of potato is a bacterial disease caused by Phytophthora infestans. It is a serious threat to potato crops worldwide, causing significant economic losses. Understanding the biology and control measures of this disease is crucial for effective management and prevention of its spread.