Viruses of cucurbit crops: current status in the Mediterranean Region

Abstract

Cucurbits are among the most cultivated crops, and the most economically important species are melon (Cucumis melo L.), cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.), watermelon(Citrullus lanatus Thumb.), squash (Cucurbita pepo L.), and pumpkin (Cucurbitaspp.). These crops have become important income sources providing export andlocal consumption commodities in many Mediterranean countries. Increased area ofcucurbits has led to the emergence of several viral diseases, which can have impacts oncrop production and threaten agricultural sustainability. An overview of the most damagingcucurbit viruses in the Mediterranean area is provided to improve understandingof the diseases they cause and to emphasize effective disease management strategies.An updating of the geographical distribution of these viruses, the symptoms theycause and their means of transmission is also provided. Disease management methodsand measures by farmers and phytosanitary authorities to address the virus outbreaksare outlined, including diagnostics, use of tolerant cultivars, and chemical and biologicalvector control. Mediterranean region farmers have learned many lessons fromthe damaging pandemics caused by cucurbit viruses, through the extensive publishedresearch, and this review provides a basis for managing future outbreaks of newlyemerging virus infections