Monitoring of Okra Yellow Vein Mosaic Virus in the Sargodha Division, Pakistan

Abstract

Okra Yellow Vein Mosaic Virus (OYVMV) is an important and significant threat to okra production, causing great yield losses in tropical and subtropical regions. The distribution and prevalence of OYVMV infection were estimated in the okra fields of Punjab, Pakistan, during 2020 and 2021. Surveys were conducted across Sargodha division (Sardogha, Khushab, Mianwali, and Bhakkar districts) to collect symptomatic and asymptomatic leaf samples. The presence of OYVMV was confirmed through PCR using specific primers. Disease incidence and severity were calculated using established formulas and rating scales. Significant differences were found in the incidence and severity of OYVMV infection among the districts and crop varieties. In 2020, Sargodha had the highest incidence and severity (80 % and 52 %), followed by Mianwali and Khushab, while in Bhakkar, the lowest incidence and severity were recorded (70 % and 47 %). In 2021, Mianwali showed the highest incidence and severity (73 % and 47 %), followed by Bhakkar and Khushab with Sargodha showing the least values for both parameters (69 % and 44 %). Among the varieties, Sultan-121 displayed the highest incidence and severity of the disease, while Sabz Pari had the lowest indices. Heat maps were utilized to visualize spatial variations in the incidence and severity of the virus infection. These findings highlight the widespread presence of OYVMV in Sargodha division and determine a baseline for future control and management strategies intended to mitigate the OYVMV-incurred losses in okra production.