The potential for production of high quality seed potatoes in Tierra del Fuego Island, Argentina

In Argentina, different areas are suitable for seed potato production; however, each has particular problems, mainly related to different pest and diseases. Tierra del Fuego Island is well isolated from traditional potato growing areas. Therefore, it was tested for its potential for seed production. The cultivars Achatt, Mailen INTA, Pampeana INTA and Spunta were grown in Rio Grande, San Pablo and Ushuaia from 1991-1994. Nematode presence and aphid population dynamics were recorded. Average tuber yield ranged from 20.1-37.6 t ha(-1). After three years PVY and PLRV remained low (0-1% for different cultivars and locations). Moreover, seed tubers obtained were physiologically young. Long days, early frosts and strong winds may limit tuber yield in some years. The island can be considered as an ecological "safe haven" and is very suitable to obtain healthy and physiologically adequate seed potatoes.