Jute yellow mosaic

Jute yellow mosaic is a serious plant disease caused by Begomovirus corchoflavi. This virus belongs to the Geminiviridae family and acts as a systemic pathogen that disrupts the physiological functions of the plant, leading to significant yield losses in fiber-producing crops.

The primary hosts of this virus are species of the genus Corchorus, commonly known as jute. Because jute is highly sensitive to viral infections during its early growth stages, the presence of the virus can result in stunted plant architecture, which directly affects the economic value and mechanical properties of the extracted fibers.

Typical symptoms are often observed on the leaves of the infected plants. Key indicators include:

• vibrant yellow mosaic patterns or mottling on the leaf surface;
• leaf curling and distortion;
• severe growth retardation;
• significant biomass reduction due to metabolic interference.

The transmission of Begomovirus corchoflavi is primarily facilitated by the whitefly Bemisia tabaci in a circulative, non-propagative manner. The efficiency of transmission is highly dependent on environmental factors, as warm and arid conditions provide optimal environments for both the insect vector and the rapid replication of the virus within the host tissues.

Management of jute yellow mosaic focuses primarily on integrated pest management (IPM) practices. Since there are no chemical treatments to cure infected plants, growers should prioritize the use of resistant cultivars, rigorous weed control to eliminate alternative hosts, and systematic insecticidal applications to manage the whitefly population. Proper field sanitation and crop rotation are essential to break the disease cycle and ensure crop productivity.