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Plant Science Today (PST)

Research Articles

Vol. 12 No. sp1 (2025): Recent Advances in Agriculture by Young Minds - II

Prevalence and transmission potential of tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) by whitefly vectors on tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) in Himachal Pradesh, India

DOI
https://doi.org/10.14719/pst.9254
Submitted
2 May 2025
Published
07-10-2025

Abstract

Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) is a harmful plant pathogen that severely hampers tomato cultivation by reducing yield and overall plant vigor. The virus is mainly transmitted by the whitefly (Bemisia tabaci), although other whitefly species, such as Trialeurodes vaporariorum, have also been suspected as possible vectors. This study aimed at assessing the prevalence of TYLCV and its association with B. tabaci and T. vaporariorum across three key tomato-growing districts, namely Una, Solan and Sirmaur. Field surveys were conducted to assess whitefly populations, plant and insect samples were collected for virus detection. Double-antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (DAS-ELISA) was employed to detect TYLCV in both tomato plants and whitefly vectors. The results indicate that among the three districts, Una showed the highest TYLCV incidence (66.03 %), severity (MSR 3.78) and ELISA-based infection rate (81.13 %), followed by Solan (31.24 %, MSR 2.45, 63.83 %) and Sirmaur (18.08 %, MSR 1.26, 42.37 %). A strong positive correlation was observed between whitefly density and disease incidence in Solan (r = 0.75, p < 0.00001), Una (r = 0.689, p < 0.000001) and Sirmaur (r = 0.46, p = 0.0052), confirming vector-mediated spread. B. tabaci is the main vector of TYLCV, with a much higher incidence in the warmer regions of Una and Sirmaur, where viral infections were most severe. In contrast, T. vaporariorum was more prevalent in the relatively cooler region of Solan but showed negligible vector competence, suggesting it plays a limited role in TYLCV transmission. The correlation between abundance and prevalence of TYLCV underscore the impact of climatic conditions on vector dynamics and disease spread. These findings emphasize the need for climate-specific IPM (Integrated Pest Management) strategies, with careful considerations for vector control, host resistance and cultural practices aligned with regional environmental conditions. This study highlights key epidemiological insights into TYLCV and vector ecology, aiding targeted disease management strategies. Controlling vector population dynamics in relation to climatic conditions will be essential to reduce losses and ensure sustainable tomato production in affected areas.

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