Recombination Analysis and Infectivity Assay of Bhendi Yellow Vein Mosaic Virus (BYVMV)

ABSTRACT A comprehensive survey was carried out during 2022–2024 in major okra (bhendi)‐growing areas of Tamil Nadu, India to determine the prevalence and distribution of yellow vein mosaic disease and enation leaf curl disease caused by begomoviruses. Molecular analysis of 37 samples by PCR using specific primers showed 19 positive for both bhendi yellow vein mosaic virus (BYVMV) and okra enation leaf curl virus (OELCuV). The DNA‐A components of two BYVMV isolates (TDM and TRI) were characterised and exhibited 96% identity with other BYVMV isolates. The betasatellite clone was identified as bhendi yellow vein mosaic betasatellite (BYVMB). A phylogenetic tree was constructed and clearly revealed the polyphyletic origin of BYVMV. Recombination analysis of the study isolates indicated the occurrence of two events, one in the intergenic and one in the coat protein region. Agroinoculation of one isolate, BYVMV TDM, caused interveinal yellowing and mild leaf curl in okra.