Sugarcane mastrevirus

Mastrevirus saccharumegyptense is a viral plant pathogen belonging to the genus Mastrevirus within the Geminiviridae family. Its genomic structure consists of circular single-stranded DNA, which facilitates its persistence and replication within the vascular tissues of host plants, severely impairing the plant's ability to transport nutrients.

The primary host range for this virus is restricted to the Saccharum genus, specifically impacting sugarcane cultivation worldwide. The economic significance of this pathogen lies in its capacity to drastically reduce sugar yields and biomass, leading to substantial financial losses in the agricultural sugar-producing sector.

Symptoms of the infection typically include foliar chlorosis, distinct striping patterns, and systemic mosaic disease. Affected plants often exhibit stunted growth, internode shortening, and a general reduction in plant vigor, which directly affects the structural integrity and quality of the harvestable cane.

The virus is primarily transmitted through insect vectors, notably leafhoppers, which spread the pathogen while feeding on plant phloem. The environmental conditions favoring the proliferation of these vectors significantly increase the rate of viral spread, particularly in regions with high temperatures and favorable humidity for insect development.

Management strategies focus on minimizing viral prevalence and vector pressure:

• Deployment of disease-free propagation material and healthy seeds.
• Effective management of weed reservoirs that harbor the virus and insect vectors.
• Integrated pest management (IPM) to control leafhopper populations.
• Implementation of strict quarantine measures and field sanitation protocols to prevent the entry and spread of the pathogen.