TYLCV

Tomato yellow leaf curl virus, often abbreviated as TYLCV, is a species of begomovirus in the family Geminiviridae. It is a significant pathogen affecting tomato crops worldwide, causing substantial yield losses. TYLCV is a DNA virus that is transmitted by whiteflies, primarily Bemisia tabaci.

The virus is characterized by its small, single-stranded circular DNA genome enclosed within an icosahedral capsid. Infection typically manifests as severe leaf curling, yellowing, and stunting of the plant. Other symptoms can include reduced fruit size, delayed ripening, and a significant decrease in the number of fruits produced. The severity of symptoms can vary depending on the virus strain, the tomato cultivar, and environmental conditions.

TYLCV is native to the Middle East and has spread globally through the movement of infected plants and whitefly vectors. Its management relies on an integrated approach, including the use of resistant tomato varieties, controlling whitefly populations through insecticides and biological control agents, and implementing good agricultural practices such as removing infected plants and managing weed hosts. Genetic engineering and breeding programs are also actively developing more resilient tomato lines to combat this devastating disease.