Papaya Ringspot Virus (PRSV): A Comprehensive Scientific Review

The Papaya Ringspot Virus (PRSV) is a devastating plant pathogen that severely impacts papaya (Carica papaya) and cucurbit crops globally (Compendium of Tropical Fruit Diseases, APS Press). As a member of the Potyvirus genus (Potyviridae family), PRSV is transmitted primarily by aphids in a non-persistent manner, leading to rapid epidemics in tropical and subtropical regions (Virus and Virus-like Diseases of Major Crops, Loebenstein & Thottappilly). Characteristic symptoms include severe leaf mosaic, chlorosis, stunting, and necrotic rings on fruits, drastically reducing yield and market value (USDA Agricultural Handbook on Tropical Fruit Pests). PRSV exists in two major strains: PRSV-P (papaya-infecting) and PRSV-W (watermelon-infecting), with limited cross-infection between them (Plant Viruses: Evolution and Management, Gaur et al.). Traditional control methods, such as rogueing infected plants and insecticide sprays, have proven ineffective long-term (FAO Plant Protection Bulletin). However, the development of transgenic virus-resistant papaya varieties (e.g., Rainbow and SunUp) (Gonsalves et al., Annual Review of Phytopathology) has revolutionized disease management