Division of Entomology and Nematology, Indian Institute of Horticultural Research Hessaraghatta Lake Post, Bangalore-560 089, India.
Papaya ringspot virus-W (PRSV-W), previously referred to as Watermelon mosaic virus-l (WMV-1) is one of the most important plant viruses that infect cucurbits in India. More than twenty species of aphids, are reported as vectors of PRSV-W. Field studies were conducted in pumpkin field from August to September 2005 and 2006 to document the vectors involved in the spread of PRSV-W, relationship between vector number and incidence, spatial and temporal distribution of virus, and extent of yield loss. Aphis gossypii Glover, was observed to be the predominant species in yellow funnel traps. The infection time in relation to plant growth play an important role in deciding the fruit weight and is directly proportional to yield loss.
