Tepovirus

Tepovirus is a genus of plant viruses belonging to the family Betaflexiviridae. These infectious agents are characterized by filamentous virions and a positive-sense single-stranded RNA genome. The diseases caused by these viruses are classified as systemic viral infections that can impact large-scale crop production by disrupting the normal metabolic and physiological processes of host plants.

The primary hosts for members of this genus include various species within the Solanaceae family, such as potatoes and tomatoes, as well as several leguminous and ornamental crops. Depending on the specific viral strain and the susceptibility of the plant cultivar, the host range can vary significantly, which makes consistent diagnostic monitoring essential for integrated pest management.

Symptoms of Tepovirus infection typically manifest as chlorotic mosaics, the development of yellow or necrotic spotting on leaves, leaf deformation, and stunted plant growth. In many cases, the infection leads to a significant reduction in fruit size and quality, resulting in decreased marketability and yield losses. Symptoms can often be confused with other viral diseases, requiring laboratory verification for accurate identification.

Transmission of the virus within agricultural systems occurs mainly through mechanical means, such as contact during cultivation, pruning, or via contaminated farming tools. Furthermore, infected propagation material serves as a major reservoir for the virus. Certain insect vectors may also play a role in spreading the pathogen from infected reservoir plants to healthy crops while feeding.

Management and protection strategies are strictly preventative, as there are no chemical products currently available that can eradicate a virus once it has established within plant tissues. Effective control measures must focus on:

• Sourcing certified virus-free planting material.
• Implementing rigorous sanitation protocols for tools and machinery.
• Monitoring and managing populations of potential insect vectors.
• Prompt roguing and destruction of symptomatic plants to reduce inoculum pressure in the field.