Solanum delhiense begomovirus

Begomovirus solanumdelhiense is a viral pathogen belonging to the genus Begomovirus within the Geminiviridae family. As a viral agent with a circular single-stranded DNA genome, it represents a significant threat to agricultural productivity by disrupting the hormonal balance and physiological functions of infected host plants.

The host range of this virus primarily includes members of the Solanaceae family, specifically tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. These crops are highly susceptible, and infection often occurs during the early growth stages, leading to severe developmental delays or total failure of the plant to produce a viable harvest.

Symptomatology typically involves the curling of leaves, chlorosis (yellowing), stunting of the plant architecture, and severe leaf deformation. In many cases, the virus induces an upright growth habit, known as leaf curl, which severely restricts the plant's photosynthetic capacity and effectively halts the development of fruit and flowers.

The transmission of this virus is strictly dependent on the presence of the whitefly Bemisia tabaci. The virus is transmitted in a persistent, circulative manner, meaning the vector remains infectious for the rest of its lifespan after ingesting the virus from an infected source. Climatic conditions characterized by dry, warm periods favor rapid population growth of whiteflies, accelerating the epidemic spread of the disease.

Effective management strategies require an integrated pest management (IPM) approach to target the whitefly vector and the viral reservoir simultaneously. Key practices include the use of insect-proof netting in greenhouses, systematic monitoring and early removal of symptomatic plants, and the application of integrated chemical and biological control agents to keep the whitefly population below economic injury levels.