Approximately 99% of seed potatoes in the Novosibirsk region are infected with viral diseases, according to the Federal Research Center.
The figure is dramatically higher than in neighboring regions such as Kemerovo (Kuzbass) and Altai Krai, where infection rates are reported at around 52–54%.
The most common problem is Potato virus Y (PVY), which causes wrinkled mosaic patterns or necrotic spots on tubers. Experts warn that PVY can cut yields by up to 30%, posing a serious risk to farmers and the local food supply.
Despite being a major agricultural region, Novosibirsk faces a shortage of locally grown potatoes, making it dependent on imports.
Source: ndn.info
