What does common scab in potatoes look like?

Common scab in potatoes can be recognized by the following characteristics:

Appearance:

* Rough, corky, or scabby lesions: These lesions appear on the potato skin and can be small, raised bumps or larger, irregular patches.

* Color: The lesions can be brown, black, or gray, depending on the variety of potato and the severity of the infection.

* Shape: The lesions can be round, oval, or irregular in shape.

* Location: The lesions can occur on the skin of the potato, including the eyes and the stem end.

Other features:

* The lesions are often shallow: They don't usually penetrate deep into the potato.

* The lesions are often numerous and clustered: They can cover a large portion of the potato's surface.

* The flesh underneath the lesions is usually firm and edible: However, the scab can make the potato difficult to peel.

In severe cases:

* The scabby lesions can be very large and deep, making the potato unusable for sale or consumption.

* The potato can be misshapen due to the growth of the scab.

Remember: Common scab is a surface disease. It does not affect the potato's internal quality, so the flesh is still edible. However, the potato's appearance can be affected, and the lesions can make it difficult to peel.

It is important to note: Common scab can be confused with other potato diseases, such as powdery scab or silver scurf. If you are unsure about the cause of the lesions, it is best to consult a plant pathologist or agricultural expert for diagnosis.