Tomato spotted wilt virus infects more than 1,000 plant species, including both specialty and staple food crops and weeds, causing an estimated $1 billion in crop losses worldwide each year.
Stunting, mosaic-like patterns on leaves, a lack of fruit, or rot-like spots on fruit are some of the symptoms of the disease in crops. Badly infected produce cannot be sold and is unpalatable.
These “resistancebreaking” strains of the virus are of particular concern and will be a key focus of the new applied and basic research.
Another complication in combating the virus is its main insect vector, western flower thrips. This tiny insect is a damaging pest even on its own.
The applied USDAAMS project serves many potential beneficiaries. It aims to help vegetable growers through new crop cultivars, new detection methods, and updated, science-based management recommendations. The results and outcomes will also inform future research and education.
After the USDA-AMS work is completed, growers should have a new, cutting-edge diagnostic tool, researchbased recommendations for sustainable crop production, and, potentially, new cultivars.