Occurrence, distribution, and management of tomato yellow leaf curl virus in China

Abstract Tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV), belonging to the genus Begomovirus in the family Geminiviridae, is the most damaging virus for global tomato production. This virus has become one of the most studied plant viral pathogens because of its huge economic importance. Since it was firstly identified in Shanghai, China, in 2006, it has been spread to most parts of the country. The widespread occurrence, rapid spread to new regions, and enormous damage to tomato production, makes it an important agricultural pathogen in China. TYLCV has been characterized extensively at the molecular level. This review is focused on the occurrence and distribution of all TYLCV isolates in China, providing valuable information for further epidemiological studies. In addition, management strategies for TYLCV are also proposed, with the ultimate goal to prevent and control the further occurrence of this viral disease.