Solanum leaf curl begomovirus

Begomovirus solanumkeralaense is a viral pathogen of the Geminiviridae family, specifically impacting Solanaceous crops. As a member of the Begomovirus genus, it relies on complex molecular interactions to disrupt the metabolic processes of host plants, leading to severe physiological changes.

This virus primarily affects crops such as tomatoes, eggplants, and potatoes. It often infects wild reservoir hosts, which act as a bridge for the pathogen to enter commercial fields, creating a persistent risk for farmers throughout the growing season.

Symptoms of the disease are characterized by distinct leaf curling, distortion, and yellowing (yellow mosaic patterns). In severe cases, the infected plants exhibit stunted growth, reduced internode length, and a proliferation of auxiliary shoots, which renders the plant incapable of producing high-quality yields.

The transmission mechanism is mediated by the whitefly Bemisia tabaci in a circulative-persistent manner. The virus is acquired by the insect during feeding and subsequently transmitted to healthy plants. Environmental conditions such as warm, dry weather facilitate the rapid multiplication of the vector, thereby accelerating the spread of the virus.

Management of this begomovirus requires a comprehensive integrated pest management (IPM) approach. Since there is no cure once a plant is infected, focus must remain on prevention. This includes the deployment of physical barriers like greenhouse screens, the implementation of rigorous weed control to eliminate virus reservoirs, and the strategic use of insecticides to suppress whitefly populations.