Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV)

English name: Zucchini yellow mosaic virus

The scientific name: Zucchini yellow mosaic virus

The type of diseaseFamily: Potyviridae

Symptoms

Infected plants develop clear yellow mosaic patterns on the leaves, with alternating green and yellow spots. Mosaic patterns may cover the entire leaf or appear in irregular patches. Leaves may also become distorted, curled, or atrophied. Fruits can grow in uneven or misshapen shapes and appear yellow spots or lines.

the reasons

ZYMV disease, mainly transmitted by aphids, is caused by the cotton/watermelon botivirus (Aphis gossypii) and the peach green aphid (Myzus persicae).

Propagation conditions

ZYMV spreads rapidly in warm conditions, especially during late spring and summer when aphid populations are high. The virus can be transmitted mechanically via plant sap or through handling of infected plants.

Disease course

The virus ferments in weeds, crop residues and perennial weeds. In the spring, aphids acquire the virus by feeding on infected plants and then transmit it to healthy plants. The virus copies itself within the new host and produces viral particles that the aphids can acquire again, continuing the cycle.

Losses

ZYMV can cause significant yield losses in zucchini and other cucurbit crops, especially when plants are infected at an early growth stage. Infected fruits may not be marketable due to deformities and discoloration.

Control strategy

An integrated approach combining agricultural practices, vector management and resistant varieties is recommended to control ZYMV.

Preventive measures

• Planting resistant or tolerant varieties.
• Practice crop rotation with non-cucurbit crops.
• Avoid introducing contaminated soil or plant materials into the planting area.

Organic/chemical control

• Use insecticidal soap, neem oil, or essential oils to control aphid populations.
• Chemical insecticides can be used to control aphid vectors, but should be used with caution to avoid harming beneficial insects.

the reviewer:

• https://www.epicgardening.com/zucchini-diseases/
• University of Massachusetts Amherst – Fusarium Wilt of Cucurbits
• https://ucanr.edu/blogs/blogcore/postdetail.cfm?postnum=19115
• https://extension.umaine.edu/ipm/management-guides/Images/zucchini-fusarium-wilting.jpg
• https://u.osu.edu/vegetablediseasefacts/cucurbit-diseases/bacterial-wilt/advanced