Molecular Epidemiology, Genetic Diversity, and Host Interactions of Begomoviruses Infecting Key Crops in Nigeria - Advances and Challenges

Abstract

Begomoviruses pose a serious threat to agricultural productivity in Nigeria, affecting

staple crops like cassava and vegetables such as tomato and pepper. These viruses,

transmitted by whiteflies, cause widespread diseases including cassava mosaic disease

and tomato leaf curl disease, undermining food security and rural livelihoods. Recent

advances in molecular epidemiology have revealed remarkable genetic diversity,

frequent recombination, and complex host-virus interactions, deepening the

understanding of viral evolution and resistance mechanisms. However, limited

surveillance and the emergence of resistancebreaking strains highlight critical gaps in

current management strategies. Future efforts should prioritize genomicsdriven

surveillance, resistance breeding, and integrated disease management to mitigate the

impact of begomoviruses and safeguard crop yields.