Mung bean yellow mosaic virus (Begomovirus vignae)

Begomovirus vignae is a plant pathogen belonging to the Geminiviridae family, responsible for severe yellow mosaic symptoms in leguminous crops. This virus acts by infecting the vascular tissue, interfering with plant growth regulation and nutrient translocation throughout the plant's life cycle.

The primary host range of this virus includes various pulses, specifically cowpea (vigna), mung bean, and common beans. The disease is most prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions where the environmental conditions favor the continuous survival and reproduction of its insect vectors.

Plants affected by this virus exhibit characteristic yellow patches on leaves, often leading to a complete mosaic appearance. Other signs include leaf curling, stunted plant height, and a significant reduction in pod set, which can lead to nearly total crop failure in cases of early-season infection.

Transmission occurs exclusively via the whitefly Bemisia tabaci. The virus is acquired by the adult whitefly during sap-feeding on infected plants. Once the vector is contaminated, it remains infectious for the rest of its life, effectively spreading the pathogen within and across neighboring fields.

Managing the disease requires an integrated pest management (IPM) approach. Key strategies involve the selection of resistant cultivars, rigorous monitoring and chemical control of whitefly populations, and the removal of alternative weed hosts that harbor the virus during the off-season. Maintaining high field hygiene is essential.