"Potato" - what is it, definition of the term
The tuber known scientifically as Solanum tuberosum is an underground, starchy storage organ of a nightshade plant, distinguished by a thick, carbohydrate‑rich flesh surrounded by a thin skin; it constitutes a primary source of dietary calories for humans and a frequent attractant and feed item for rodents such as rats and mice.
Detailed information
Solanum tuberosum, a herbaceous perennial from the nightshade family, develops underground storage organs composed of modified stems. The plant produces compound leaves, white to violet flowers, and tuberous roots that vary in size, shape, and skin color according to cultivar.
The tuber contains approximately 18 % carbohydrates, 2 % protein, and 0.1 % fat, along with vitamins C, B6, and minerals such as potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium. Starch granules dominate the dry matter, providing a high-energy food source for both humans and animals.
Cultivation relies on well‑drained loam, soil pH between 5.5 and 6.5, and a planting depth of 10–15 cm. Optimal yields occur under a temperature range of 15–20 °C, with irrigation scheduled to maintain soil moisture at 70 % field capacity. Harvest typically follows 90–120 days after planting, when foliage senesces.
Rats and mice frequently target the underground organs, attracted by the high starch content and soft texture. Damage manifests as gnawed entry holes, loss of tuber mass, and increased susceptibility to secondary fungal infections. Rodent activity can reduce marketable yield by up to 30 % in unmanaged fields.
Effective control measures include:
- Physical barriers – metal or plastic mesh placed beneath the planting row to prevent burrowing.
- Habitat reduction – removal of weed cover and debris that provide shelter.
- Trapping – snap or live traps positioned along field edges, checked daily.
- Chemical deterrents – bait stations containing anticoagulant rodenticides, applied according to local regulations.
- Biological agents – introduction of predatory mammals such as barn owls or feral cats to suppress rodent populations.
Implementing an integrated pest‑management program that combines these tactics minimizes losses while preserving soil health and tuber quality.