Bidens mottle virus

Bidens mottle virus (BiMoV) is a plant pathogenic virus belonging to the genus Potyvirus within the Potyviridae family. This pathogen is known for its ability to cause systemic infections in various host plants, predominantly members of the Asteraceae family, leading to significant physiological stress in the infected specimens.

The primary commercial impact is observed in crops such as lettuce, endive, and artichoke, as well as various ornamental species. Typical symptoms of the infection include leaf mottling, interveinal chlorosis, mosaic patterns, and severe leaf deformation. Infected plants often show stunted growth and reduced vigor, which drastically lowers the yield and marketability of the produce.

The biology of the virus is centered on its vector-mediated transmission. It is transmitted in a non-persistent manner by various species of aphids, such as Myzus persicae. In this mode of transmission, the virus is acquired during brief probing sessions on an infected host and can be transferred to a healthy host almost immediately, making it a highly efficient pathogen in field settings.

Environmental conditions that favor the proliferation of aphid populations significantly increase the spread of the virus. Warm and dry weather is often associated with higher aphid activity, accelerating the disease outbreak. Furthermore, weeds that serve as asymptomatic hosts, particularly species from the Asteraceae family, act as crucial overwintering reservoirs for the virus.

Effective control measures focus on integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. This includes the elimination of nearby weed hosts, the use of insecticides to manage aphid vector populations, and the implementation of physical barriers such as row covers to protect young crops. Monitoring insect populations and early detection of symptomatic plants are essential steps in limiting the spread within production areas.

• Leaf mottling and mosaic patterns
• Chlorotic spots and discoloration
• Leaf curling and deformation
• Stunted plant development
• Decreased crop yield and quality