Whitefly-transmitted viruses

Whitefly-transmitted tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) remains a chronic threat to tomato production in Georgia as well in the Southeast. In addition, two other viruses devastated cucurbit production – Cucurbit leaf crumple virus (CuLCrV) and Cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus (CYSDV). CYSDV was identified for the first time in Georgia. Efforts by UGA entomologists have largely focused on management and basic aspects of transmission by whiteflies. Even though TYLCV resistant cultivars are available, they are planted in less than one-third of the tomato acreage. Scientists are currently conducting research to assess how these cultivars could be best integrated into the management program. Growers are already beginning to realize that spraying insecticides alone might not be sufficient to reduce whiteflies and TYLCV incidences, particularly under high-pressure scenarios. UGA research has indicated the presence of alternatives that they could use without having to significantly compromise on yields. Resistant cultivars are currently being considered at least in the fall season. Through this research, entomologists can demonstrate that TYLCV could be significantly reduced, or yield losses due to TYLCV incidence could be significantly reduced.