REVIEW: IMPORTANCE OF BARLEY YELLOW DWARF VIRUS (BYDV) DISEASE IN WHEAT

Plant viruses generate economic loss for farmers, producers, and consumers by adversely affecting plant growth and reproduction; causing death of host tissues and plants, sterility, reduction of yield or quality, crop failure, increased susceptibility to other stresses, loss of aesthetic value, quarantine and eradication of infected plants; and the increasing the cost of control and detection programs. Barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV) is globally recognized as one of the most widespread and damaging diseases of cereal crops. It is vectored by aphids. The disease causes discoloration of leaves, stunted growth due to reduced internode elongation, inhibition of leaf initiation, reduced tillering, suppressed heading and sterility. These symptoms lead to significant yield losses up to 80 %. Breeding for resistance is a sustainable and environmentally friendly method of control, reducing the application of pesticides.