Beet curly top virus

(BCTV)
 

Beet curly top virus (BCTV) belongs to Geminiviridae family, subgroup II of Geminivirus genus (figure 1). The virus is transmitted by several species of leafhoppers (Circulifer spp. Agallia albidulla) (figure 2) in a persistent manner.
 
 
- Symptoms
 
Curling and embossing of leaves, prominent and irregular veins are observed. The plants are often stunted. The leaves are occasionally rough and eventually turn yellow.
 
 
- Characteristics
 
This is a minor virus disease, reported only in a few countries in Europe and America, Iran and India. It affects a large number of hosts (beets, spinach, tomato, cucumber, beans ...). Many strains are known, they do not necessarily infect tobacco.

For protection against vector insects, please refer to the fact sheet on how to control leafhoppers.