Genotype by Environment Interaction on Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) Cipira Variety in the Western Highlands of Cameroon

Variations in biological systems are due to genetic and environmental influences. Climate change has caused serious damages in potato production worldwide. A literature review on previous research works carried out in the Western Highlands of Cameroon aimed at determining the effects of genotype by environmental interaction on Cipira variety yield within 24 years. Yield loss of 35-65% was recorded for the production of ware and seed potato in the Western Highlands. A shift in planting seasons was observed over the years due to changes in climatic conditions. Diseases and pests were found to be on the increase in potato fields. The frequency of chemical control of disease pathogens rose from two to sixteen sprays per cropping season within the 24 years in the Western Highlands. Consequently, the cost of production for fungicides purchased to control late blight in potato increased from US$84 to US$672. This review recommends research on using potato genotypes possessing minor genes to develop varieties of short and long cycles, heat-stress, disease resistance and high yields for the Western Highlands of Cameroon.