The concentration of atmospheric greenhouse gases, mainly the CO2, has increased in the last decades due to anthropogenic activities. The atmospheric CO2 concentration has increased from about 280 parts per million per volume (ppmv) in the pre-industrial period to the currently 380ppmv concentration. There are reports that during the XX century global average temperature increased 0.6±(0.2)°C and projections indicate a possible 1.1 to 6.4°C increase in temperature by the end of the XXI century, depending upon each region. The increase in atmospheric CO2 concentration and air temperature directly affect plant physiological processes, such as photosynthesis and respiration, which may affect crops performance, including potato. The objective of this review was to assemble information from the literature on the possible effects of increasing atmospheric CO2 concentration and air temperature on growth, development and yield of potato. In general, the increase in CO2 concentration followed by an increase in air temperature will result in lower growth, reduction in the duration of the developmental cycle, lower yield and increase of potato diseases. A strategy to minimize the effects of a possible global warming on potato would be to develop cultivars that are tolerant to high temperatures, adapt planting time in each location, change management practices and even, expand growing areas to colder regions.
Solanum tuberosum L.; carbon dioxide; temperature increase; climate change; crop management
