Articles

Cotton Leaf Curl Disease (CLCuD), is a disease that is caused by Begomoviruses and causes devastating effects on cotton production, particularly in South Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The virus is transmitted by Bemisia tabaci (whitefly) but the weeds serve as reservoirs and vectors that sustain the virus even between cotton-growing seasons. Conventional diagnostic tests such as PCR and ELISA are viable and time consuming and also need specialized equipments, limiting them to remote locations. CRISPR-based technology and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) provide a more effective and quicker method of detection. A major approach to the management of CLCuD is Integrated Pest Management (IPM), weed management, biological management, and development of genetically resistant cotton varieties. The review is based on the concept of molecular diagnostics, the importance of weeds in the spread of the virus, and the existing control strategies, providing the facts on sustainable ways to manage the spread of CLCuD.