S. Joshi1, R.D. Timila1, C. Manandhar2, S. Manandhar2 and NTripathi3
1Senior Scientist S4, 2Scientist S1, 3Technical Officer T6
Abstract
Number of viruses infects cucurbits. In Nepal, Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV), Watermelon mosaic virus (WMV) 1 and 2, Squash mosaic virus (SqMV) and Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV) are infecting cucurbits. These viruses were identified serologically by Enzyme Linked immune Sorbent Assay (ELISA). Among the viruses of Cucurbits, majority are mechanically transmissible in the sap of infected plants. Some are seed-borne such as CMV, ZYMV, CGMMV and SqMV. Usually more than one virus infect cucurbits at the same time and cause economic loses. The Objectve of the experiment was to find suitable methods to minimize viral diseases of cucurbits. Antiviral products and locally available materials known to have antiviral properties as Victovirus, Bioleafcare, Fresh cow milk, Liposome, Turmeric powder, Jeebatu, Anti-V S (Natural Plant Virus Control Agent) and Oshin, the insecticide, also were tested to manage viral diseases of zucchini squash on pots and in field condition. Fresh cow milk, Anti-V S, Liposome and Victovirus helped to lower virus disease severity up to 6 weeks of diseases observation.
Keywords: cucurbits, cucumber mosaic virus, watermelon mosaic virus, zucchini yellow mosaic virusm antiviral agents.