Chili Leaf Curl Virus: A Common Threat in Chili (Capsicum annum var. annum) Cultivation

Abstract

Chili (Capsicum annuum L.) is a widely cultivated vegetable crop that is susceptible to around 45 viruses. Among these, 24 are known to occur naturally, while the remaining can infect plants only through artificial inoculation. Out of the 24 naturally occurring viruses in chili, approximately 11 have been reported in India. The most serious of these is the chili leaf curl virus (LCV), which can lead to yield losses of up to 100% in severe cases. This disease is caused by begomovirus, which can be identified by distinct symptoms such as yellowing of veins, mosaic-like yellow patterns, and curling of leaves. Efforts to control chili LCV through cultural practices or chemical methods have largely been unsuccessful. This review highlights the key biotic and abiotic challenges in chili farming and explores mitigation strategies. Prioritizing the development of advanced cultivation techniques, addressing climate-related stressors, and implementing integrated pest and disease management practices is crucial. Among the most effective strategies to combat these viruses is the cultivation of resistant varieties. Both cultivated and wild lines have provided sources of resistance to various viruses, and numerous virus-resistant lines have already been released for cultivation.