Tungro Virus Disease in India: Historical Insights and Contemporary Prevalence Trends in Rice Cultivation

by

Jabeen Asma* , Subrahmanyam D , Krishnaveni D

ICAR-Indian Institute of Rice Research, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030, Telengana State, India

Corresponding Author Email: asma.aman5@gmail.com

DOI : https://doi.org/10.51470/AGRI.2023.2.3.19

Abstract

Tungro virus disease poses a significant threat to rice cultivation in India, impacting yields and livelihoods of farmers. This review provides historical insights and examines contemporary prevalence trends of Tungro virus disease in rice cultivation across India. The historical evolution of the disease, from its initial emergence to its spread across different regions of the country, is analyzed to understand its trajectory over time. Contemporary prevalence trends, influenced by factors such as climate, agricultural practices, and vector dynamics, are explored to assess the current status of Tungro virus disease in India. The epidemiology, transmission mechanisms, and host plant interactions are discussed, shedding light on the complex dynamics of disease spread and management. The review highlights the importance of ongoing research, surveillance, and collaborative efforts among stakeholders to effectively mitigate the impact of Tungro virus disease and ensure the sustainability of rice production in India and the historical context and contemporary trends of Tungro virus disease is essential for developing targeted strategies and interventions to address this significant challenge facing rice cultivation in India.

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Introduction

Rice (Oryza sativa) is a staple crop in India, serving as a primary source of nutrition for millions of people and a cornerstone of the country’s agricultural economy. However, the sustainable production of rice faces numerous challenges, including the threat posed by viral diseases such as Tungro virus disease [1]. Tungro virus disease, caused by the Rice tungro bacilliform virus (RTBV) and Rice tungro spherical virus (RTSV), has emerged as a significant constraint to rice cultivation in India, leading to yield losses and economic hardships for farmers. The introduction of Tungro virus disease in India traces back to the early 20th century when it was first reported in the Philippines. Since then, the disease has spread to various rice-growing regions of India, posing a serious threat to food security and rural livelihoods [2]. Tungro virus disease is characterized by symptoms such as stunting, yellowing of leaves, and reduced grain yield, making it a major concern for rice farmers across the country. Understanding the historical evolution and current prevalence trends of Tungro virus disease in India is essential for developing effective management strategies and ensuring the sustainability of rice production [3]. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Tungro virus disease in India, examining its epidemiology, transmission mechanisms, host plant interactions, and management approaches. By synthesizing existing knowledge and recent research findings, this article seeks to enhance understanding of Tungro virus disease dynamics and inform strategies for disease management and rice production in India. The following sections will delve into the historical evolution of Tungro virus disease in India, its prevalence trends, epidemiology, and the various management strategies employed to mitigate its impact on rice cultivation [4]. By addressing the challenges posed by Tungro virus disease and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, we can ensure the resilience and productivity of India’s rice farming communities in the face of emerging threats and changing environmental conditions.

Figure 1: Mapping the Spread of Tungro Disease in Rice Plants, his figure illustrates the spatial distribution and spread of Tungro disease in rice plants across different regions. The map provides insights into the geographical patterns of disease incidence and prevalence, highlighting areas of high and low disease burden. Understanding the spatial dynamics of Tungro disease transmission can inform targeted interventions and management strategies to mitigate its impact on rice cultivation copyright from the MDPI and reference adopted from [1].

Prevalence Trends and Epidemiology

Tungro virus disease, caused by the Rice tungro bacilliform virus (RTBV) and Rice tungro spherical virus (RTSV), poses a significant threat to rice cultivation in India. Understanding the prevalence trends and epidemiology of Tungro virus disease is crucial for implementing effective management strategies and mitigating its impact on rice production [5]. The prevalence of Tungro virus disease in India exhibits dynamic patterns influenced by various factors, including climatic conditions, host plant resistance, vector populations, and agricultural practices. Historically, the disease was localized to specific regions but has gradually spread to new areas, posing challenges to rice cultivation across the country. Epidemiological studies have identified the green leafhopper (Nephotettix spp.) as the primary vector responsible for transmitting Tungro virus disease in rice fields. These insect vectors acquire the virus while feeding on infected plants and subsequently transmit it to healthy plants during feeding activities [6]. The presence of suitable environmental conditions, such as warm temperatures and high humidity, facilitates vector activity and virus transmission, contributing to disease spread.

Changes in agricultural landscapes, cropping patterns, and irrigation practices have also influenced the epidemiology of Tungro virus disease. Intensive rice cultivation, monocropping, and continuous flooding of fields create favorable conditions for the proliferation of both the vector and the virus, leading to increased disease incidence, genetic diversity among rice cultivars plays a significant role in disease epidemiology. Varieties susceptible to Tungro virus disease are more prone to infection and dissemination, whereas resistant cultivars exhibit reduced disease severity and transmission rates. However, the emergence of new virus strains and vector populations with increased virulence and adaptability poses challenges to host plant resistance and disease management efforts [7].

Monitoring and surveillance efforts are essential for tracking the prevalence and distribution of Tungro virus disease in rice-growing regions. Integrated pest management (IPM) approaches, including cultural practices, biological control agents, and insecticide applications, are commonly employed to manage vector populations and reduce disease incidence, understanding the prevalence trends and epidemiology of Tungro virus disease is critical for implementing proactive measures to mitigate its impact on rice production in India [8]. By integrating surveillance, research, and outreach activities, stakeholders can develop targeted strategies to manage vector populations, enhance host plant resistance, and promote sustainable rice cultivation practices. Collaborative efforts among researchers, policymakers, extension agents, and farmers are essential for effectively addressing the challenges posed by Tungro virus disease and safeguarding the future of rice production in India.

Host Plant Interactions and Management Strategies

The interaction between rice plants and Tungro virus disease-causing pathogens, including Rice tungro bacilliform virus (RTBV) and Rice tungro spherical virus (RTSV), plays a crucial role in determining disease severity and spread. Understanding these interactions is essential for developing effective management strategies to mitigate the impact of Tungro virus disease on rice cultivation in India [9].

1. Host Plant Susceptibility: Variability in host plant susceptibility to Tungro virus disease influences disease dynamics and transmission rates in rice fields. Certain rice varieties exhibit inherent resistance or tolerance to Tungro virus infection, while others are highly susceptible. Breeding programs focused on developing resistant cultivars have been instrumental in enhancing host plant resistance and reducing disease incidence [10].

2. Vector-Plant Interactions: The green leafhopper (Nephotettix spp.) serves as the primary vector responsible for transmitting Tungro virus disease in rice fields. Vector-plant interactions, including feeding behavior and preference for certain rice varieties, influence virus transmission rates and disease spread. Understanding the biology and ecology of vector populations is essential for implementing targeted control measures and minimizing disease transmission [11].

3. Cultural Practices: Adoption of cultural practices that disrupt the lifecycle of vector populations and reduce virus transmission is an integral component of Tungro virus disease management. Practices such as early planting, synchronized transplanting, and crop rotation can help minimize vector populations and reduce disease incidence. Additionally, maintaining optimal plant density and spacing facilitates airflow and reduces humidity, creating less favorable conditions for vector activity and virus transmission [12].

4. Biological Control: Biological control agents, including natural enemies and predators of green leafhopper vectors, can help suppress vector populations and limit virus transmission in rice fields. Encouraging the presence of beneficial insects, such as spiders, predatory bugs, and parasitoid wasps, can contribute to natural pest control and reduce the reliance on chemical insecticides [13].

5. Insecticide Applications: While chemical insecticides can effectively control green leafhopper populations in rice fields, their indiscriminate use may lead to negative environmental and ecological impacts. Integrated pest management (IPM) approaches advocate for judicious use of insecticides, focusing on targeted applications during peak vector activity periods and minimizing non-target effects on beneficial insects and wildlife [14].

6. Host Plant Resistance Breeding: Breeding programs aimed at developing rice varieties with enhanced resistance or tolerance to Tungro virus disease play a crucial role in sustainable disease management. Utilizing genetic diversity within rice germplasm, breeders can identify and introgress resistance genes into high-yielding cultivars, enhancing their resilience to Tungro virus infection. Marker-assisted selection techniques enable breeders to expedite the development of resistant varieties with desirable agronomic traits, effective management of Tungro virus disease in rice cultivation in India requires a multifaceted approach that integrates host plant interactions, cultural practices, biological control, and breeding strategies. By understanding the dynamics of host-pathogen-vector interactions and implementing targeted management practices, stakeholders can reduce disease incidence, enhance crop productivity, and promote sustainable rice cultivation practices in India [15].

Future Directions and Conclusion

Despite significant progress in understanding Tungro virus disease dynamics and developing management strategies, challenges persist in effectively controlling the disease in India. Continued research efforts, collaboration among stakeholders, and adoption of holistic approaches are essential for addressing the emerging threats posed by Tungro virus disease and ensuring the sustainability of rice cultivation in India [16]. By integrating scientific knowledge, technological innovations, and community engagement, enhance resilience and promote sustainable rice production practices that benefit farmers, consumers, and the environment, Tungro virus disease poses a significant threat to rice cultivation in India, impacting yields, livelihoods, and food security [18-21]. The historical evolution, prevalence trends, epidemiology, host plant interactions, and management strategies discussed in this review highlight the complex nature of Tungro virus disease and the challenges it presents to rice farmers and agricultural stakeholders. The prevalence of Tungro virus disease in India exhibits dynamic patterns influenced by environmental factors, vector populations, host plant susceptibility, and agricultural practices. The green leafhopper serves as the primary vector responsible for transmitting Tungro virus, highlighting the importance of understanding vector-plant interactions and implementing targeted control measures.

Effective management strategies for Tungro virus disease include cultural practices, biological control, insecticide applications, and host plant resistance breeding. Integration of these strategies within an integrated pest management framework can help mitigate disease incidence, reduce reliance on chemical inputs, and promote sustainable rice cultivation practices. However, challenges remain in effectively controlling Tungro virus disease and safeguarding rice production in India. Emergence of new virus strains, vector populations, and changing climatic conditions pose ongoing threats to disease management efforts. Furthermore, ensuring equitable access to disease-resistant rice varieties, extension services, and technical support is essential for empowering smallholder farmers and promoting adoption of sustainable disease management practices. Collaborative efforts among researchers, policymakers, extension agents, and farmers are crucial for developing and implementing integrated disease management strategies that address the complex interactions between host plants, pathogens, and vectors. Continued investment in research, surveillance, and capacity building is needed to enhance resilience and sustainability of rice production systems in India. In conclusion, by leveraging scientific knowledge, technological innovations, and community engagement, we can overcome the challenges posed by Tungro virus disease and ensure food security, livelihoods, and environmental sustainability for current and future generations of rice farmers in India.

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