Capsicum chlorosis

Capsicum chlorosis virus (CaCV).

Usually minor; sometimes occurs at economically damaging levels in coastal Queensland.

Affected plants set few kernels and those which do set are small and of poor quality. Severely affected plants are stunted and may die, leaving gaps in rows.

CaCV causes mottling and dark (necrotic) spots on leaves. Internodes are reduced in length and the terminal growing points wilt and die. Affected plants are stunted, particularly when infected early in life, and may eventually die.

Several thrips (e.g. tomato thrips and melon thrips) spread the virus. It belongs in the same virus group as tomato spotted wilt virus and the transmission process for both viruses is almost identical. The virus is not spread by other insects such as aphids and jassids. CaCV is not spread by contact, in soil or in seed.

CaCV infects capsicum, tomato and peanut. Billygoat weed (Ageratum conyzoides) is a major weed host of the virus throughout coastal Queensland. This weed commonly occurs around cane fields and along roadsides.

Cultural
Infected plants cannot be cured. Control weeds around and within crops, particularly Billygoat weed. Avoid planting new peanut crops adjacent to old crops or near capsicum crops.

Chemical registrations and permits
Check the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority chemical database and permit database for chemicals registered or approved under permit to treat this disease on the target crop in your state or location. Always read the label and observe withholding periods.