Pavonia mosaic virus

Begomovirus pavoniae is a viral plant pathogen belonging to the Geminiviridae family. The virus is characterized by its geminate (twinned) particles containing circular single-stranded DNA. It acts as an obligate parasite, manipulating host cell machinery to facilitate its replication and systemic movement within the plant tissues.

The primary host range includes species within the Malvaceae family, notably the genus Pavonia. Due to its biological affinity with specific insect vectors, the virus can easily jump from wild reservoirs to cultivated varieties, making it a significant challenge for nurseries and botanical gardens in endemic regions.

The symptoms of infection reflect the metabolic disturbance caused by the virus. Key clinical signs include:

• Characteristic mosaic patterning with chlorotic and green sectors.
• Severe leaf curling and crinkling due to irregular tissue growth.
• Significant stunting of the entire plant.
• General plant decline and reduced reproductive vigor.

The development and dissemination of the disease are inextricably linked to the presence of the tobacco whitefly, Bemisia tabaci. This insect vector acquires the virus through persistent feeding, meaning once infected, the insect remains a carrier throughout its lifespan. Environmental factors that favor high whitefly populations, such as warmth and humidity, accelerate the spread of the virus across large areas.

Effective management strategies prioritize the exclusion of the virus from cultivation areas. This includes strict sanitation programs, the use of virus-free planting stock, and robust integrated pest management (IPM) practices to suppress whitefly populations. Since there are no chemical cures for established viral infections, the early detection and immediate removal of symptomatic plants remain the most critical prevention measures.