Clerodendrum leaf curl begomovirus

Pathogen and disease type. Begomovirus clerodendrumjiangsuense is a pathogenic virus belonging to the genus Begomovirus within the Geminiviridae family. It causes a viral disease characterized by systemic infection that disrupts the host plant's physiological functions. As a DNA virus, it replicates within the plant cell nucleus and relies on specific insect vectors for effective transmission between hosts.

Susceptible crops. The primary host identified for this pathogen is the Clerodendrum genus. Due to the high mutation rate common in begomoviruses, there is a constant risk that the infection could spread to other related plant species within the Verbenaceae family. Greenhouse production systems are particularly vulnerable due to the close proximity of plants and the presence of vector populations.

Symptoms and signs of infection. The infection is visually manifested through significant morphological abnormalities. Typical symptoms include severe leaf curling, chlorotic spots or mottling, and irregular leaf development. Affected plants often exhibit stunted growth, shortened internodes, and a reduced capacity for flowering, which severely impacts their ornamental value and overall vigor.

Conditions for development and spread. The primary vector for this virus is the whitefly (Bemisia tabaci). Transmission occurs when the insect feeds on an infected plant, acquiring the virus, and subsequently injecting it into healthy tissue. Environmental factors such as high temperature and humidity are critical, as they promote rapid whitefly reproduction, thereby increasing the rate of viral spread within a collection.

Economic impact and protection measures. The viral infection causes significant economic loss by rendering ornamental plants unsellable and causing decline in plant health. Effective management requires a holistic approach focused on integrated pest management (IPM):

• Routine inspection and immediate culling of symptomatic plants.
• Implementation of rigorous whitefly control programs using appropriate insecticides.
• Usage of fine mesh screens to exclude insect vectors from greenhouses.
• Strict quarantine practices for any newly introduced plants to prevent pathogen entry.