Capsicum chlorosis virus

Capsicum chlorosis virus (CaCV) is a plant-pathogenic virus belonging to the genus Orthotospovirus within the family Tospoviridae. It is a serious threat to agriculture, primarily affecting Solanaceous crops, causing significant economic losses worldwide due to crop failure and reduced fruit quality.

The virus infects various crops, including bell peppers, chili peppers, tomatoes, and some leguminous plants. Symptoms typically include leaf chlorosis, necrotic spotting, mosaic patterns, and overall stunted growth. In severe infections, the plant may lose its vigor, leading to premature leaf drop and the production of unmarketable, deformed fruits.

The biological cycle of the virus is strictly dependent on thrips, particularly Frankliniella occidentalis, which act as vectors. The virus is acquired by larvae during feeding on infected plant tissue. Once the virus enters the vector, it replicates, and the insect remains infectious for its entire lifespan, transmitting the virus to healthy plants during subsequent feeding.

The spread of this pathogen is directly linked to the population dynamics of its insect vectors. Development is favored by warm, humid conditions which are ideal for thrips propagation. Rapid transmission within greenhouses is common, as the confined space allows for the quick movement of viral-carrying thrips between susceptible host plants.

Control measures are centered on an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy. Key methods include:

• Rigorous control of thrips populations using chemical and biological insecticides.
• Elimination of weeds that serve as reservoirs for the virus.
• Utilization of virus-free certified planting material.
• Implementation of quarantine and sanitation protocols in greenhouse facilities.
• Removal and destruction of symptomatic plants immediately upon detection.