Potatoes

Basic Information

Anatomy

The potato is a tuber. It has a leafy mid-calf height flowering body, but everything except the tuber is inedible. The tuber has a bark-like skin with a variety of colors.

Genetics and Reproduction

Potatoes reproduce through cuttings of the tubers, partial planting of a tuber, or the seeds produced from the fruiting body of the flower.

Growth Rate & Stages

Potatoes take 9 to 16 weeks to reach maturity. Potatoes go through 5 phases. In the first phase, sprouts and roots emerge from the seed. In the second, photosynthesis begins with the growth of leaves and branches. For the third phase, stolons develop from lower leaf axils on the stem and grow downwards into the ground and on these stolons new tubers develop as swellings of the stolon. This phase is often, but not always, associated with flowering. Tuber formation halts when soil temperatures reach 81 °F, which is why potatoes are considered a cool-season crop. Tuber bulking occurs during the fourth phase, when the plant begins investing the majority of its resources in its newly formed tubers. At this phase, several factors are important to a good yield: optimal soil moisture and temperature, soil nutrient availability and balance, and resistance to pest attacks. The fifth and final phase is the maturation of the tubers: the plant canopy dies back, the tuber skins harden, and the sugars in the tubers convert to starches.

Ecology and Habitats

It does well anywhere with non-rocky soil, long dry days and cold winters. Potatoes do not grow well on islands.

Dietary Needs and Habits

Potatoes need sunlight and water, but don't over-water them or they will rot.

Additional Information

Uses, Products & Exploitation

Potatoes are a staple food in humanoid diets. They can be stored in dry places to save for weeks and even months.

Perception and Sensory Capabilities

Roots from the tuber can sense foot steps. Leaves can sense a presence based on heat, vibration and light.

Scientific Name

Solanum Tuberosum

Origin/Ancestry

Ireland Equivalent

Conservation Status

The potato is doing well and plentiful on all main lands.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

Potatoes can be in a variety of colors from any shade of brown, red, yellow, and a few rare varieties of dark purple and blue.