Prevalence and distribution of Tomato leaf curl virus in major agroclimatic zones of Gujarat

Abstract

A study was conducted to establish the prevalence and severity of Tomato leaf curl viral disease in the major agroclimatic tomato cultivating regions of Gujarat. Districts of Gandhinagar, Kheda, Mehsana, Panchmahal and Rajkot of Gujarat were surveyed. The survey aimed at assessing types of symptoms, severity and yield loss in the tomato plants. Results obtained indicate vast spread of Tomato leaf curl virus in majority of the tomato fields in Gujarat. The maximum infection was observed in the Kheda district with almost complete crop loss followed by Mehasna and Gandhinagar districts showing high prevalence of infection. Influence of the climatic conditions and cultural practices were observed on the level of infection.