Pepper leaf curl virus

Begomovirus capsibhavanisagarense is a viral pathogen belonging to the Geminiviridae family. It is a significant biological threat to solanaceous crops, primarily impacting the production of peppers (Capsicum species) in tropical and subtropical regions where the disease pressure is consistently high.

The virus is categorized as a geminivirus, specifically a begomovirus, which is characterized by its bipartite genome structure. It primarily targets the phloem tissue of the host, leading to systemic infections that disrupt the normal physiological processes and nutritional transport within the plant.

The characteristic symptoms observed in infected plants include severe leaf curling, puckering, and yellowing of the foliage. The plants often exhibit stunted growth, reduced internode length, and a distinct bushy appearance. Flowers may abort, and any fruit that does develop is typically small, misshapen, and commercially unmarketable.

Transmission occurs exclusively via the whitefly Bemisia tabaci in a circulative, persistent manner. The vector acquires the virus while feeding on infected sap and remains capable of transmitting the pathogen for the duration of its lifespan, facilitating rapid spread within and between fields during favorable weather conditions.

Management of this virus is challenging and relies heavily on integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. These include the use of virus-resistant germplasm, effective whitefly control measures such as insect-proof netting, systematic application of selective insecticides, and rigorous sanitation practices, including the removal of alternate weed hosts from the surrounding environment.