Occurrence of Rhexocercosporidium carotae on cold stored carrot roots in the Netherlands

Winter carrot for the fresh market is an important cash crop for many organic arable farms in the Netherlands. In recent years carrot roots from cold stores have been affected by superficial dark brown to black spots. To gain insight into the pathogens causing the blemish and the effect of agronomic practices on their occurrence, surveys were carried out among crops harvested in 2001 and 2002. In addition carrots harvested in 2003 were screened for root spotting pathogens. Rhexocercosporidium carotae (syn. Acrothecium carotae and Pseudocercosporidium carotae) was the dominant pathogen in blackish spots on carrots harvested in 2001. On carrots harvested in 2002 and 2003 Alternaria radicina was detected more frequently. Multiple regression analysis indicated that a higher occurrence of the blemish may be linked with harvest conditions and presence of umbelliferous plants. The effect of the temperature on conidial germination, mycelial growth and pathogenicity of R. carotae was studied. The estimated optimum and maximum temperature for growth of R. carotae was 19 and 29°C, respectively. Inoculation experiments demonstrated that wounds are good invasion routes. Infection occurred at 3, 10 and 20°C, but not at 30°C. Penetration into wounds was greatest at 20°C