Solanum parvi begomovirus

Pathogen and disease type. The pathogen Begomovirus solanumparvi is a plant virus belonging to the Geminiviridae family. It is a systemic viral disease that disrupts the vascular functions of the host plant. These viruses are characterized by a single-stranded circular DNA genome and are transmitted by insect vectors in a persistent circulative manner.

Host crops and economic impact. The virus primarily affects crops within the Solanaceae family, including tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. The economic impact is severe, as the infection leads to stunted plant growth, significant yield reduction, and poor fruit quality, often rendering the harvest unsellable for commercial markets.

Symptoms and signs. Typical symptoms include severe leaf curling, yellow mosaic patterns, and crinkling of leaves. Infected plants often exhibit shortened internodes, bushy growth (rosetting), and a significant reduction in flowering. If fruits are produced, they are usually small, deformed, and fail to reach maturity, which impacts the total marketable yield.

Development and transmission. The virus is transmitted by the whitefly Bemisia tabaci, which acts as a vector. Transmission occurs while the insects feed on the phloem of the host plant. Spread is favored by warm, humid weather conditions that promote rapid whitefly population growth and increase the efficiency of viral transmission across fields.

Control and prevention measures. Managing Begomovirus solanumparvi requires an integrated pest management (IPM) strategy. Key practices include:

• Strict control of whitefly populations using targeted insecticides and biological agents.
• Removal of weeds that serve as alternative hosts for the virus.
• Installation of insect-proof nets in greenhouse structures.
• Use of virus-resistant or tolerant crop varieties.
• Implementation of hygiene practices in nurseries to ensure the use of disease-free transplants.