Types of Cultivated Bananas Infected by BBTV and the Spread of BBTV in Bengkulu

One of the limiting factors for banana cultivation in Indonesia is the banana bunchy top virus (BBTV). An insect vector transmits this virus through aphids known as Pentalonia nigronervosa. BBTV is known to have spread to almost all islands in Indonesia. Losses to banana production in Bengkulu province are significantly impacted by the distribution of BBTV in the area. BBTV infections on banana plants were frequently encountered during survey trips in Bengkulu. The survey was conducted starting from the southern coast of Bengkulu, proceeding to the provincial capital, and subsequently covering the central and northern parts of the province. Most infected plants were found to be neglected and located on the side of roads. Observations revealed that several banana cultivars are susceptible to BBTV, including Muli, Janten, Ambon, and others.