Beet Curly Top Virus

Causal Agent

Beet curly top virus (BCTV) of cucurbits is caused by curtoviruses. This group includes beet curly top virus, beet severe curly top virus, and beet mild curly top virus, among others. They are transmitted by the beet leafhopper (Circulifer tennellus).

Symptoms

Curly top symptoms in cucurbits can include plant stunting, stiffness, and shortened internodes. The foliage of young plants turns yellow and may roll upward with a crinkled appearance. The tips of the runners will turn upward. Plants infected in the seedling stage will likely die. Older plants will eventually turn yellow and die.

Management

Once a plant is infected, there is no cure. Good weed control to remove virus reservoirs in the vicinity of fields can help. There are currently no resistant bean varieties available.