Abutilon yellows virus

The causative agent of the disease is the Abutilon yellows virus, a member of the genus Crinivirus. This pathogen infects the vascular system of the host, disrupting nutrient translocation and causing characteristic physiological stress that manifests as leaf chlorosis.

The primary host range of this virus includes various species within the Malvaceae family, with a significant economic impact on the ornamental production of Abutilon. The virus is capable of persisting in the host tissues, creating a systemic infection that impacts the entire plant development.

Symptoms are primarily characterized by interveinal chlorosis or a distinct yellowing of the leaf veins. As the disease progresses, leaves may show signs of crinkling or stunting, and the overall plant vigor is significantly reduced, which directly affects the commercial viability of ornamental crops.

Transmission of Crinivirus abutilonis occurs exclusively through insect vectors, specifically the greenhouse whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum). The virus is acquired by the insect during feeding and transmitted to healthy tissues in subsequent feeding sessions, facilitating rapid spread within a localized area.

Prevention and management strategies focus on strict vector control and sanitation. Because there is no chemical cure for the virus, growers must emphasize the eradication of whitefly populations using biological or chemical insecticides. Furthermore, strict quarantine and disposal of symptomatic plants are essential to prevent the spread of the virus to healthy stocks.