Yunnan tobacco begomovirus

Yunnan tobacco begomovirus (Begomovirus nicotianayunnanense) is a dangerous viral pathogen that primarily affects solanaceous crops. This virus belongs to the family Geminiviridae, which is characterized by single-stranded DNA genomes and transmission by specific insect vectors.

The primary host plant is tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), although studies indicate a potential threat to tomatoes and other species within the Solanaceae family in regions where it is present. The virus exerts a systemic impact on plant metabolism, suppressing normal growth and development.

Key symptoms of infection include pronounced leaf mosaic, deformation of the leaf blade, curling, and overall stunting of the plant. In some cases, chlorosis or yellowing of the tissues occurs, which leads to a significant decrease in photosynthetic activity.

The spread of the virus in nature is mainly carried out by whiteflies of the genus Bemisia tabaci. These pests act as obligate vectors, transferring viral particles from infected plants to healthy ones while feeding on sap. Favorable conditions for disease outbreaks include hot and dry weather, which promotes the mass reproduction of the vectors.

Protection measures include controlling whitefly populations using insecticides and agronomic practices. Prevention involves the use of virus-free planting material, the removal of weed hosts, the implementation of crop rotation, and maintaining spatial isolation of crops from infected areas.