Jacquemontia yucatanensis begomovirus

Jacquemontia yucatanensis begomovirus is a viral pathogen of the family Geminiviridae, specifically affecting plant species within the Convolvulaceae family. This pathogen is characterized by a circular single-stranded DNA genome that requires specific insect vectors for effective transmission between host plants in both natural and agricultural ecosystems.

The primary reservoir for this virus is the wild plant Jacquemontia pentanthos, which is native to the Yucatan region. In agricultural settings, the virus poses a risk to susceptible crops by interfering with their hormonal balance, leading to stunted growth and reduced metabolic efficiency, which eventually impacts the yield of the host plants.

Infected plants typically exhibit distinct symptoms such as mosaic patterns, chlorotic yellowing, severe leaf curling, and crinkling. These morphological changes often result in significant foliage distortion, which inhibits normal growth patterns and often leads to the stunted development of the entire plant architecture.

Transmission occurs through the whitefly Bemisia tabaci, acting as a persistent vector. The virus is acquired by the insect during feeding and remains within its salivary glands for the duration of its life, allowing the vector to transmit the infection to healthy plants during subsequent feeding sessions, even over significant distances.

Management strategies focus on the integrated pest management (IPM) approach to minimize viral spread. This includes the elimination of wild host plants, the systematic application of insecticides to reduce vector populations, and the use of physical barriers or protected cultivation to prevent whitefly colonization. Early detection and roguing of infected symptomatic plants are essential to prevent secondary infections.