Citrus leprosis disease

Flat mite, Brevipalpus phoenicis

Citrus leprosis disease is a significant viral disease affecting citrus plants. It is caused by the Citrus leprosis virus (CiLV), which belongs to the family Kitaviridae. The disease is primarily transmitted by false spider mites of the genus Brevipalpus.

Symptoms

The symptoms of Citrus leprosis disease include localized lesions on the leaves, stems, and fruits of the infected plants. These lesions are typically chlorotic (yellow) or necrotic (brown) and can lead to premature leaf drop, twig dieback, and fruit blemishes. The disease does not spread systemically within the plant, which means that the virus remains localized at the site of infection.

Transmission

Citrus leprosis disease is vectored by several species of Brevipalpus mites, including Brevipalpus phoenicis, Brevipalpus californicus, and Brevipalpus obovatus. These mites acquire the virus by feeding on infected plant tissues and subsequently transmit it to healthy plants during their feeding activities.

Management

Managing Citrus leprosis disease involves integrated pest management (IPM) strategies aimed at controlling the mite vectors. These strategies include:

• Regular monitoring of mite populations.
• Application of miticides to reduce mite numbers.
• Cultural practices such as pruning and removal of infected plant parts to reduce sources of inoculum.
• Use of resistant or tolerant citrus varieties, if available.

Economic Impact

Citrus leprosis disease can cause significant economic losses in citrus production due to reduced fruit quality and yield. The disease is particularly problematic in regions where citrus is a major agricultural commodity.

Geographic Distribution

Citrus leprosis disease is prevalent in several citrus-growing regions, including parts of South America, Central America, and North America. It has been reported in countries such as Brazil, Mexico, and the United States.

Research and Development

Ongoing research efforts are focused on understanding the biology and ecology of the Citrus leprosis virus and its mite vectors. Advances in molecular biology and genomics are aiding in the development of diagnostic tools and potential control measures.

See Also

• Citrus tristeza virus
• Huanglongbing
• Integrated pest management
• Plant pathology