Status and emerging threats of plant viruses in northeast India: Severity patterns, vector dynamics and sustainable management approaches

Plant viruses are a major problem for farmers in Northeast India because they grow a wide range of crops in unique agro-climatic conditions that make it easier for diseases to spread. Recent surveys have shown that many viruses can infect rice, vegetables, fruits and other horticultural crops in all states of the region. Viral diseases happen more often and are worse in certain crops and seasons, but they can affect 50-80% of crops during epidemics. Insects like aphids, whiteflies, leafhoppers and thrips that thrive in the area's warm, humid climate are the main way they spread. Climate change and more trade have also made it easier for new vectors and viruses to spread. For example, warmer winters could mean that insects that carry viruses stay around all year. Also, bringing in ornamental and vegetable seedlings has brought in new viruses. By figuring out when viruses were first introduced, we can ask questions about how they affected things. How hard was it for native species to deal with these viruses? Plant viruses are a well-known problem for farmers in Northeast India because they grow a lot of different crops and the weather is perfect for disease outbreaks. Recent surveys have shown that many viruses can infect rice, vegetables, fruits and other horticultural crops in all states of the region. Viral diseases happen more often and are worse in certain crops and seasons, but they can affect 50-80% of crops during epidemics. Insects like aphids, whiteflies, leafhoppers and thrips that thrive in the area's warm, humid climate are the main way they spread. Additionally, climate change and increased trade have led to new pressures from vectors and viruses. For example, warmer winters could mean that insects that carry viruses are around all year and bringing in ornamental and vegetable seedlings has made it easier for exotic viruses to spread. This makes us wonder what their effects are: How hard was it for native species to deal with these viruses?