Incidence and distribution of Sweetpotato viruses and their implication on sweetpotato seed system in Malawi

Abstract A survey was carried out in 19 districts to investigate the prevalence and distribution of sweetpotato virus disease (SPVD) its implication on sustainability clean seed system Malawi. total 166 leaf samples were collected tested for presence 8 viruses using nitrocellulose membrane enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (NCM-ELISA). SPVD foliar symptoms observed 68.42% surveyed districts. There significant variations incidence severity (p < 0.001) among districts, with highest Mulanje (28.34%). Average score 3.05. NCM-ELISA detected sweet potato feathery mottle (SPFMV, 30.54%), mild (SPMMV, 31.14%), speckling (SPMSV, 16.17%), C-6 (SPC6V, 13.77%), chlorotic stunt (SPCSV, 22.16%), collusive (SPCV, G (SPVG, 11.38%), cucumber mosaic (CMV, 7.78%) either single or mixed infections. Data from this study indicate a occurrence country, consequence implications towards national system.