In a recent announcement, the Paraguay National Service for Plant and Seed Quality and Health (Senave) issued a warning to producers growers the confirmation of ToBRFV in Argentina, specifically affecting tomatoes and known as Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV). While emphasizing that this virus poses no threat to human or animal health, Senave underscored the potential significant harm it can inflict on tomato and pepper crops.
Senave strongly advised local producers to conduct "intensive monitoring of their plots" to promptly identify any signs of this pest. The virus manifests through yellow spots and discoloration on fruits, along with brown spots, leaf narrowing, and overall stunted growth in tomato plants.
The agency also alerted growers to potential transmission routes of the virus, including through seeds, seedlings, tools, and equipment used in cultivation, as well as the potential spread by insects like thrips.
Given this situation, farmers were urged to engage in "constant monitoring of their plants" and to promptly report any suspicions of virus presence to Senave. The rapid spread of this virus emphasizes the critical importance of early detection to prevent substantial losses in crops.
The focus of concern lies in ToBRFV's ability to impact both tomato and pepper crops, with potential economic consequences for the Paraguayan agricultural sector. Agricultural authorities are implementing preventive measures and calling for active collaboration from producers to address this phytosanitary threat.
Source: adndigital.com.py