SCAR marker for the selection of Ry-duplex potato clones immune to potato virus Y

Vegetative propagation of potato allows the dissemination of viruses that can cause drastic drops in tuber yield. Potato virus Y (PVY) is one of the most important viruses of potato due to the non-persistent mode of transmission through vector insects. Genetic resistance is the recommended control measure since the chemical control of vector insects is not effective. This study aimed to identify PVY-immune clones through potato grafting onto virus-infected tobacco plants, check their genetic constitution for the Ry allele through PCR and evaluate the clones’ field performance. Sixty-two clones were identified as PVY-immune through grafting. The SCAR marker allowed the identification of two duplex clones for the Ry allele (RyRyryry), which can be used as parents to originate progenies with about 80% PVY-immunity in crossings with susceptible clones. Besides, the clones were productive and presented high tuber dry matter content.