Begomovirus: Potensi ancaman pertanian hortikultura Lampung

Begomoviruses are a group of plant viruses belonging to the Geminiviridae family, persistently transmitted by the whitefly Bemisia tabaci, and pose a serious threat to horticultural crops in Lampung Province, Indonesia. These viruses infection symptoms such as mosaic, chlorosis, leaf curling, and stunted growth, with yield losses reaching up to 90%. The spread is exacerbated by intensive cultivation practices, the use of uncertified seeds, and tropical climates that favor high vector populations. This study explores the biological characteristics of Begomoviruses, their transmission mechanisms via vectors, and their high genetic variability due to frequent mutation and recombination. Several begomovirus species have been identified infecting key horticultural crops in Lampung, including Ageratum yellow vein virus (AYVV), Tomato yellow leaf curl Kanchanaburi virus (TYLCKaV), and Pepper yellow leaf curl Indonesia virus (PepYLCIV). In addition to vector transmission, some begomovirus species are also known to be seed-transmitted, expanding their epidemic potential. Integrated management strategies discussed in this article include the use of resistant varieties, biological and agronomic control of vectors, and the development of innovative approaches such as mild strain cross-protection. This review emphasizes the need for continuous monitoring and science-based sustainable strategies to mitigate the impact of Begomoviruses on food security and horticultural productivity in tropical regions such as Lampung.