*2.8.1* Potato virus X *(PVX)*

*Potato virus X* (PVX) has been reported in Ethiopia, Zambia and Zimbabwe to infect a wide range of solanaceous crops including pepper, tomato, potato and tobacco. The virus causes a range of symptoms including mottling, severe necrosis of leaves and stems and sometimes, defoliation of some cultivars. Symptoms of PVX are worsened in co-infection with other viruses, especially *Potato virus Y* [58, 59]. *Potato virus X* is transmitted mechanically and by contact between plants, but not through seeds [60]. PVX is of minor importance in pepper production [60].

**81**

**Figure 1.**

*Management of Viruses and Viral Diseases of Pepper (*Capsicum *spp.) in Africa*

Planting resistant cultivar is the most economic and effective way of managing

Viruses remain a primary constraint to production of high-quality *Capsicum* spp. worldwide, especially in the developing regions [1]. In Africa, weeds often become reservoir hosts for vectors and virus species that attack pepper in the field [47]. Currently, virus species in the genus *Potyvirus*, *Cucumovirus*, *Begomovirus* and *Tobamovirus* are major concern for many growers because of their effects on yield [7, 62]. The severity of infection depends on environmental conditions, host varieties and individual virus infection (**Figure 1**). Generally, these virus infections cannot be totally eradicated in many plantations where they occurred [10]. However, prompt action against the damage caused by viruses is with the use of resistant varieties and ensuring adequate phyto-sanitary conditions within the field. Therefore, awareness of local farmers on the impact of field hygiene must be improved as adjunct to using tolerant varieties. Additionally, screening of young seedlings for infection before they ever reach the field is crucial to reduce virus occurrence. Ultimately, the development of eco-friendly ways of virus disease management will help to improve yield in the pepper industry.

*Possible symptoms that can be observe on pepper in the field. (A) Mosaic pattern on leaves, (B) leaf mottling,* 

*(C) leaf curl, (D) vein banding, (E) vein yellowing and (F) leaf reduction.*

*DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.92266*

*2.8.1.1 Management of PVX*

the virus [61].

**3. Conclusion**

*Management of Viruses and Viral Diseases of Pepper (*Capsicum *spp.) in Africa DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5772/intechopen.92266*
