Cotton leaf curl virus (CLCuV) is a complex of viruses that causes significant yield loss in cotton crops. The primary causal agents of CLCuV are the cotton leaf curl geminivirus (CLCuD) and cotton leaf curl Burewala virus (CLCuB) , They belong to the genus Begomovirus and family Geminiviridae.
These viruses are transmitted to cotton plants by whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) insect vectors. The virus causes a characteristic leaf curl, and yellowing of the leaves, plants may become stunted, and severe infections can result in reduced yields or complete crop loss.
The disease is more commonly found in warm and arid regions, where whitefly populations can thrive, and can cause significant damage to cotton crops. CLCuV can also infect other plants such as okra, tomato, chilies, and other vegetable crops.
To control the disease, farmers can use practices such as:
- using resistant or tolerant cotton varieties,
- controlling whitefly populations using chemical or biological methods,
- using integrated pest management practices,
- using proper crop rotation,
- using disease-free seed,
- using foliar fungicides
It’s important to consult with local agricultural extension service and refer to the most updated information available to develop a management plan that would work best for the specific location and growing conditions.