Potato blight

Potato blight is a plant disease caused by a fungus-like organism called Phytophthora infestans. It infects potato plants, causing dark, greasy spots on leaves and stems, which can quickly lead to those parts rotting and dying. The disease can also affect the tubers (the edible part of the potato), causing them to rot and become inedible. Potato blight spreads rapidly through wet, humid weather, especially via airborne spores, and can cause significant crop loss if not managed promptly. It has historically caused devastating famines, notably the Irish Potato Famine in the 19th century.