Epidemiology and vector-mediated management of major viral diseases of strawberry in district swat

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) is an economically important berry crop belonging to the family Rosaceae and the genus Fragaria. Several viruses infect strawberry and can cause substantial yield losses. A field survey was conducted to assess the incidence and distribution of viral diseases in strawberry crops of District Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, during the 2021-22 growing season. Virus-like symptoms, including mosaic, necrosis, chlorosis, leaf crinkling, and reddish discoloration of leaves and petioles, were observed in all surveyed locations. Serological detection using DAS-ELISA confirmed the presence of Strawberry latent ringspot virus (SLRSV), Strawberry mild yellow edge virus (SMYEV), and Tomato ringspot virus (ToRSV). The highest mean disease incidence was recorded for SLRSV (14.7%), followed by SMYEV and ToRSV (14.0% each). The maximum incidence of SLRSV (20.0%), SMYEV (16.7%), and ToRSV (16.7%) was observed in Sherpalam, while the lowest incidences were recorded at Baghderai, Duresh Khela, and Khwaza Khela, respectively. In the virus management experiment, three insecticides were evaluated for control of aphid vectors. Butler was the most effective in reducing aphid populations and virus transmission, followed by Actara and Bolton. The untreated control recorded the highest aphid population (24.51) and disease incidence (25.67%). Overall, the results indicate that Butler provided the most effective control of aphids and associated viral diseases in strawberry.