Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus
Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV): The spotted wilt virus is transmitted through thrips (Thrips tabaci, Frankliniella schultzi and F. occidentalis). This disease is similar to streak in that it causes streaking of the leaves, stems and fruits. Numerous small, dark, circular spots appear on younger leaves. Leaves may have a bronzed appearance and later turn dark brown and wither. Fruits show numerous spots about one-half inch in diameter with concentric, circular markings. On ripe fruit, these markings are alternate bands of red and yellow.
Control: The affected plants should be removed and destroyed. Alternate or collateral hosts harboring the virus causing this disease is removed at the time of weeding or earthing up operations to minimize the spread of the disease. Checking the population of thrips can reduce the disease incidence. 2-3 foliar sprays with Dimethoate (0.05%) or Monocrotophos (0.05%) at 10 days intervals controls the thrips population.
