Chickpea chlorotic stunt

Systematic position and nature of the pathogen. The disease known as Chickpea chlorotic stunt is caused by the Chickpea chlorotic stunt virus (CpCSV). It is a member of the genus Polerovirus within the family Solemoviridae. The virus consists of a single-stranded RNA genome and relies entirely on insect vectors for dissemination, as it cannot be transmitted via soil or seed.

Affected crops and disease symptoms. This virus primarily infects chickpeas (Cicer arietinum), causing severe stunting and chlorosis. Infected plants exhibit yellowish foliage, reduced internode length, and a stunted appearance. In addition to chickpea, the virus can infect other legumes such as lentils and peas, as well as various wild legume weeds that act as virus reservoirs.

Biology and transmission cycle. The virus is transmitted in a persistent, circulative, non-propagative manner by aphid species, most notably Aphis craccivora. Once an aphid feeds on an infected plant, the virus circulates within the insect's body. The insect remains a vector for the rest of its life, effectively spreading the pathogen throughout the field during feeding sessions.

Conditions for development and severity. The epidemic potential of CpCSV is closely linked to the migration patterns of aphids. Favorable conditions for vector reproduction, such as mild winters and specific spring temperatures, drastically increase the incidence of the disease. In severe cases, early-stage infection leads to a complete failure of pod set and total loss of grain yield.

Protection and control measures. Management strategies focus on controlling the vector population. This includes the application of systemic insecticides during the early growth stages of the crop. Additionally, cultural practices such as adjusting sowing dates to avoid peak aphid migration, utilizing resistant chickpea cultivars, and implementing strict weed control in and around the fields are essential for mitigating the impact of the virus.