Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) is a highly destructive plant virus that primarily infects various crops, notably tomatoes and many other economically important plants. TSWV belongs to the genus Tospovirus, which is part of the family Bunyaviridae.
This virus is transmitted by several species of thrips, tiny insects that feed on plants and spread the virus through their feeding activities. TSWV causes significant damage to infected plants, leading to reduced yields and sometimes complete crop loss.
The symptoms of TSWV infection are diverse, ranging from dark, necrotic lesions on leaves, stems, and fruit to stunting, mottling, wilting, and general plant deformities. The severity and appearance of symptoms can vary depending on the host plant and environmental conditions.
Control measures for TSWV often involve a combination of cultural practices, such as removing infected plants and weeds, practicing crop rotation, and using certified virus-free seeds or transplants. Chemical control using insecticides is also employed to manage the thrips population and reduce the spread of the virus.
TSWV poses a significant threat to agricultural industries worldwide due to its wide host range, insect transmission, and resistance to many commonly used control measures. It is crucial for growers to implement preventive strategies, such as managing thrips populations and using resistant or tolerant plant varieties, to minimize the impact of TSWV on crop production.
