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Late blight caused by the oomycete Phytophthora infestans is the most serious disease of potato crops worldwide. As a major culprit of the Irish potato famine in the mid-nineteenth century, late blight has had a tremendous effect on human history. Elucidation of the life cycle of P. infestans by German botanist Anton de Bary is claimed as a founding moment of modern plant pathology.

Using computer animations blended with real-life video and time-lapse photography, this teaching video impressively illustrates the life cycle of P. infestans. Your students and extension audiences will gain a clear understanding of the development and epidemiological spread of this fungus-like pathogen and the nature of the devastating disease it causes.

Now full length videos can be trimmed for use in PowerPoint presentations. Trim this video to highlight specific stages of Potato Late Blight for classroom demonstrations, or use the full video to build an entire lecture.

All stages of the disease cycle are explained in detail:

ASEXUAL REPRODUCTION:
Infected tubers as a source of inoculum
Transmission of mycelium to seedling
Formation of sporangiophores on leaves
Detachment and spread of sporangia
Direct and indirect germination
Zoospore production and release
Zoospore locomotion and encystment
Leaf infection and mycelial growth
Secondary sporulation and spread of disease
Infection of tubers

SEXUAL REPRODUCTION:
A1 and A2 (opposite) mating types
Formation of male and female gametangia
Penetration of antheridium by oogonial initial
Expansion of oogonium
Meiosis and fertilization
Formation of thick-walled oospore
Dormancy period in soil
Germination of activated oospore
Release of zoospores