Enigma IV is the latest collaborative project launched by Fera Science
A new R&D project has been launched by Fera Science to advance on-farm control of spraing in potatoes.
The Enigma IV project aims to improve predictive diagnostics for Tobacco Rattle Virus (TRV). TRV is a leading cause of spraing, which has been known to damage up to 50 per cent of potato crops.
Adam Bedford, Enigma projects director at Fera Science, explained that Fera scientists will work closely with potato specialists to develop more efficient testing processes for TRV. “Currently, the standard tests used for detecting TRV in potato seed require huge volumes of soil and take more than four weeks to produce results,” he said.
“We want to put spraing control in the hands of potato growers, using research insights to develop an infield diagnostic service that’s more cost-effective with a faster turnaround time. The ultimate aim is to help growers manage the disease more accurately and minimise crop wastage.”
Enigma IV is one of two new projects announced by Fera Science, alongside another addressing Cabbage Stem Flea Beetle issues in oilseed rape.
“As with our previous Enigma research projects, we’re uniting growers, agronomists and scientists to address critical challenges facing the agri-food sector, and very much welcome other organisations to join this journey,” Bedford said.
The Enigma concept champions collaborative research, and has proven successful with previous projects, including Enigma I.
Launched in 2022, Enigma I partners including Syngenta, G’s Growers, Pearce Seeds, Blackthorn Arable, Elveden Farms and Inov3PT, supported Fera scientists with valuable insights on wireworm control.
As a result, Mr Bedford said the scientists have developed a photographic key that helps growers identify, monitor and control wireworm populations more accurately.
“The results of our first Enigma project have shown that, by bringing scientists and industry partners together, we can make rapid progress in producing actionable insights for farmers and growers,” he added.
