Cucurbit aphid‐borne yellows virus: A growing but overlooked threat to global cucurbit production

Abstract Cucurbit aphid‐borne yellows virus (CABYV) presents a significant threat to cucurbit crops worldwide. Discovered in France in 1988, it rapidly spread to various regions, causing severe outbreaks primarily in warm Mediterranean areas and Asia. Classified in the family Solemoviridae , genus Polerovirus , CABYV exclusively inhabits plant phloem and is persistently transmitted by aphids. However, one exception in transmission was recently described for a CABYV isolate from Brazil transmitted by whiteflies. The virus has been detected across Europe, Asia, and Africa since its discovery. Recent studies indicate a concerning increase in the prevalence of CABYV in Northern Europe, along with the emergence of new isolates with higher virulence, new transmission vectors, and wider host ranges. The genetic structure of CABYV populations is influenced by purifying selection, resulting in distinct genetic groups in Asian and Mediterranean regions. Host factors and limited gene flow between geographically separated strains further contribute to genetic diversity. Recombination events result in the emergence of new variants, complicating disease management. While some resistance traits against CABYV have been identified in cucumber, squash, and melon, effective genetic resistance is still elusive. CABYV remains a significant worldwide threat to cucurbit crops. This review presents an update of CABYV biological features and will be published in the descriptions of plant viruses held by the Association of Applied Biologists as a new section dedicated to CABYV.