​​​Pink Eye: The Periderm Disorder Syndrome

December 2018 | 18 min., 28 sec.
by Edward C. Lulai
USDA-ARS

Summary

​This presentation will help consultants, county agents, growers, researchers, and other practitioners in potato-growing areas understand the complex nature of the costly problem formerly referred to as “pink eye” and now called “periderm disorder syndrome” (PDS). This disorder has no cure. An understanding of the physiological processes that give rise to the problematic symptoms is essential in guiding practitioners as they consider approaches to minimize costly losses from associated disease and defect development. Specifically, the presentation will answer these questions: What is periderm disorder syndrome, and what are its symptoms? Is it caused by pathogens, or is it a physiological disorder? How does it arise, and what is known about possible ways to control or minimize it? By the end of this presentation, practitioners will have an understanding of the nature of the syndrome and its complexities and be able to use this information to help make decisions regarding emerging recommendations for storage, sale, and processing of afflicted potatoes.

About the Presenter

Edward C. LulaiEdward C. Lulai is a research chemist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service (ARS) at the Northern Crop Science Laboratory in Fargo, North Dakota. Ed received his bachelor's degree in chemistry and mathematics at Valley City State University. He went on to receive his MS and PhD degrees from North Dakota State University and then began his research career in 1977 with the ARS. His research program focuses on potato tuber wound healing, periderm maturation (skin-set), and periderm disorder syndrome (formerly referred to as “pink eye").

Contact Information:
Email: ed.lulai@ars.usda.gov

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