Viruses in sweetpotato.

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Plant Pathology
• Virology

Background:

• Sweetpotato cultivation is significant in Mediterranean countries like Egypt, Spain, Portugal, and Israel.
• Yields vary considerably, from 7.8 tons/ha in Portugal to 34 tons/ha in Israel.
• Vegetative propagation methods make sweetpotatoes susceptible to yield loss from virus infections in planting material.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the main viruses affecting sweetpotato crops in the Mediterranean.
• To review the impact of these viruses on crop yields.
• To discuss potential control strategies for sweetpotato viruses.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on sweetpotato viruses in Mediterranean countries.
• Analysis of reported yield data in relation to potential virus impact.
• Compilation of information on virus identification and control.

Main Results:

• Key viruses identified include Sweet potato feathery mottle virus (SPFMV) and Sweet potato chlorotic stunt virus (SPCSV).
• Combined infections of SPFMV and SPCSV cause significant "sweetpotato disease."
• Eleven other viruses are sporadically reported, contributing to yield variability.

Conclusions:

• Virus contamination in propagation material is a primary factor limiting sweetpotato yields in the Mediterranean.
• Effective management of SPFMV and SPCSV is crucial for improving sweetpotato production.
• Further research into control methods is needed to enhance crop quality and yield.