Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Physiological disorders in potato tubers can be caused by environmental factors, nutrient imbalances, or water management issues rather than pathogens.
Hollow heart is a physiological disorder characterized by the formation of an irregular cavity in the center of the tuber.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Hollow heart is caused by rapid tuber growth, typically triggered by a sudden change in growing conditions.
When periods of slow growth (due to dry conditions) are followed by sudden moisture availability (from irrigation or rainfall) or high nitrogen fertilization, the tuber expands rapidly.
The rapid tissue expansion causes internal tension, pulling the cells apart and creating a cavity in the center of the tuber.
This disorder is more common in large tubers because they grow at a faster rate.
In contrast, Black heart is caused by anaerobic conditions (oxygen starvation) in the center of the tuber, often occurring during poor ventilation in storage or high-temperature transit.
The options list "Rapid growth and development of tubers followed by sudden irrigation" as the primary cause of hollow heart.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Hollow heart of potato is caused by rapid growth and development of tubers followed by sudden irrigation, which corresponds to Option (C).