Solanum leaf curl begomovirus

Solanum leaf curl begomovirus (Begomovirus solanumvariatuminvolutionis) is a destructive plant pathogen belonging to the Geminiviridae family. This virus is a major constraint in the cultivation of solanaceous crops worldwide, characterized by the presence of circular single-stranded DNA and systemic infection patterns that impact plant physiology.

The virus primarily targets essential food crops such as tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes. Due to its broad host range, it often survives in wild vegetation and ornamental plants, which act as reservoirs that facilitate the cycle of infection during the cropping season in various agricultural environments.

Visible symptoms typically involve severe curling and rolling of leaves, mosaic-like yellowing, and stunted growth of the entire plant. Infected plants exhibit shortened internodes and deformed fruits, leading to reduced yield quantity and a significant decline in quality standards required for commercial agricultural markets.

Transmission occurs exclusively through vector activity, most notably the whitefly (Bemisia tabaci). The whitefly acquires the virus from infected tissues and transmits it through feeding. The spread is highly correlated with the population density of the insect, temperature spikes, and the overall management of the local ecosystem's host plants.

Management strategies focus on vector control and the removal of inoculum sources. Strategies include the use of virus-resistant varieties, integrated pest management (IPM) to control whitefly populations, and rigorous sanitation practices. Farmers are advised to avoid planting near infected fields and to ensure timely removal of weed hosts to limit the initial spread of the virus.