New approaches to potato variety identification

The identification of varieties of potatoes and other crops is important at all stages of production. Traditional approaches have used morphological characters, but modern crop production increasingly demands methods that are more rapid and discriminating. Three new approaches to variety identification are described: (i) image analysis, (ii) gel electrophoresis of proteins, (iii) the use of DNA profiling (molecular markers). The advantages and disadvantages of each approach are considered and possible future developments highlighted.