Insect Diseases

PoGV occlusion bodies

Just as people are affected by disease-causing microbes like viruses and bacteria, so are insects infected by their own host of diseases. Some disease organisms are very specific to certain insect species, while others are able to infect and kill a wide range of insects. Most of the pests that damage potatoes are susceptible to one or more fatal diseases that occur in the environment and can become established in potato fields.
[All photos and graphics thanks to Dr. Lerry Lacey.]

PTM Granulovirus (POGV)

PoGV occlusion bodies

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PoGV Infection Process

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Infected fat body stains red

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Gross pathology - PoGV infected larva top

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Small Scale Production of PTW Granulovirus

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Disease Dispersal

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Hanging posture and fragile integument of virus-infected larvae aid in the dissemination of the occlusion bodies into the environment. Some viruses induce climbing.


Fungal Infections

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Example of a colorado potato beetle infected with the fungus, Beauveria bassiana.

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Example of green peach aphid infected with the fungus, Lecanicillium lecanii.

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