Cotton begomovirus

Pathogen and disease type. Begomovirus gossypialabadense is a viral pathogen belonging to the Begomovirus genus within the Geminiviridae family. It is a systemic plant disease characterized by its ability to alter the genetic expression of the host plant, leading to stunted growth and severe metabolic disruption within cotton tissues.

Host range. The primary host for this virus is cotton (Gossypium species). While highly specific to cotton, the virus can also persist in various weed hosts within the Malvaceae family, allowing it to survive during the off-season and reappear in subsequent growing cycles when vectors are present.

Symptoms and signs. Typical symptoms include severe leaf yellowing, chlorotic mosaic patterns, and curling of the leaf blades. Affected plants often exhibit distinct dwarfism, shortened internodes, and a bushy appearance. The flowering process is frequently disrupted, leading to the shedding of buds and significant reductions in fiber production.

Development and impact. The virus is transmitted exclusively by the whitefly, Bemisia tabaci. Environmental conditions such as high temperatures and drought stress favor the rapid multiplication of the vector, thereby accelerating the spread of the virus. The economic impact is devastating, often leading to total crop failure in heavily infested areas due to loss of yield and poor fiber quality.

Protection and prevention. Since no chemical cure exists for viral plant infections, management focuses on integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to control the vector and prevent initial inoculation:

• Regular monitoring and chemical control of whitefly populations.
• Cultivation of resistant or tolerant cotton varieties.
• Implementation of a mandatory host-free period.
• Sanitation, including the removal of weeds and infected plant debris.
• Spatial and temporal separation of cotton crops to minimize exposure.