Yellow spot of pepper

Orthotospovirus capsicimaculaflavi is a plant-pathogenic virus belonging to the Orthotospovirus genus. This pathogen is responsible for causing the disease known as yellow spot of pepper, which is a significant concern for agricultural producers, leading to substantial yield losses and degradation of vegetable fruit quality.

The primary hosts of this virus are members of the Solanaceae family, with Capsicum annuum being the most susceptible. The virus can also reside in various weeds, which serve as essential reservoirs, allowing the pathogen to persist across different growing seasons or within protected greenhouse environments.

The symptoms of this disease include chlorotic spots that eventually turn yellow on the leaves. On the fruit, the virus manifests as concentric rings and mosaic patterns, which significantly reduce the commercial value of the harvest. Infected plants often show signs of stunted growth, leaf curling, and overall reduction in plant vigor.

The transmission of Orthotospovirus capsicimaculaflavi is mediated by thrips, particularly the western flower thrips. These insects acquire the virus by feeding on infected plants and subsequently transmit it to healthy tissues. The spread is facilitated by warm environmental conditions that favor thrips reproduction and activity.

Prevention and control strategies focus on integrated pest management (IPM). This includes the use of virus-free planting material, rigorous control of thrips populations using insecticides and sticky traps, and the elimination of weed hosts. Maintaining greenhouse hygiene is critical to prevent the establishment and further spread of the virus.