Peanut stripe

Peanut stripe is a viral disease caused by the Peanut stripe virus (PStV), a member of the Potyvirus genus. It is recognized as a significant constraint to peanut production globally, particularly in areas where aphids are prevalent during the growing season.

The disease primarily targets the peanut plant (Arachis hypogaea). While its host range is somewhat specific, it can persist in various weed hosts and volunteer plants, making sanitation and field edge management vital components of any disease prevention strategy.

Symptoms typically manifest as chlorotic stripes, spots, or mosaic patterns on the young leaves. Infected plants often exhibit stunted growth, reduced leaflet size, and distorted foliage, which ultimately leads to reduced pod set and compromised seed quality at harvest.

Transmission occurs through two primary routes: non-persistent aphid transmission and seed transmission. Because aphids can acquire and transmit the virus within seconds, controlling vector populations using conventional chemical methods is often challenging and requires careful timing.

Effective management relies on a multi-faceted approach. Key strategies include planting virus-free certified seeds, implementing strict weed control programs to eliminate reservoirs, and utilizing systemic insecticides during the early growth stages to minimize primary aphid infestations and secondary spread within the field.