Yellow virus disease on chili peppers

Yellow virus disease on chili peppers

From Republika

In response to reports in several publications about a virus
decimating chili peppers, known as Bule Amerika (American Albino)
among local chili pepper growers, we would like to give the
following information and corrections:
* Scientifically, this disease, called the yellow virus (an
official name given on the basis of an agreement among experts on
plant diseases caused by viruses), is caused by the Tomato Yellow
Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCV) geminivirus and is communicated by a
vector, namely the Bemisa tabaci (kebul) insect. This disease can
attack inang plants other than chili pepper, including tomatoes,
tobacco, "babadotan" weeds (Ageratum conyzoides) and button
flower weeds (Gomphrena globosa).
* We have tried to provide information about the yellow virus and
how to control it among officials and growers in chili pepper
production centers through training, SLPHT and the distribution
of leaflets.
* As for the name Bule Amerika, which is frequently used by chili
pepper growers in Yogyakarta and Central Java, we suggest that it
should no longer be used as it is not a standard name and may
give rise to undesirable perceptions.

DARYANTO

Director of Horticulture Protection,

Directorate General of Horticultural Production

Ministry of Agriculture