Anjouan Solanaceae leaf curl virus

Begomovirus solanumanjouanense is a viral plant pathogen classified within the Geminiviridae family. As a member of the Begomovirus genus, it primarily affects crops in the Solanaceae family, often leading to severe systemic infections that can compromise the entire harvest.

The virus predominantly targets solanaceous plants, including tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes. These crops are highly susceptible to infection, which occurs primarily through insect vectors, specifically whiteflies, which transmit the virus while feeding on plant sap.

Symptoms associated with this begomovirus include severe leaf curling, stunting, chlorosis, and the development of mosaic patterns on the foliage. These physiological disruptions lead to flower abortion, poor fruit set, and significant reduction in the overall market value of the crop.

The spread of the virus is inextricably linked to the population dynamics of its insect vector. High temperatures and humid conditions accelerate the life cycle of the whitefly, leading to rapid disease transmission across field and greenhouse production systems during the peak growing season.

• Implementation of integrated pest management (IPM) for whitefly control.
• Utilization of virus-free, certified seeds and seedlings.
• Regular sanitation of the growing environment to remove weeds.
• Use of physical barriers such as insect-proof netting in greenhouses.
• Rogueing and immediate disposal of symptomatic plants to reduce inoculum.