Effects of Climate Change on the Spread and Severity of Potato Virus Y: An In-depth Examination

Abstract

Potatoes are a cornerstone of global agriculture and a fundamental component of diets worldwide, with plant viruses accounting for nearly half of the emerging crop epidemics. Among these, Potato Virus Y (PVY) poses a formidable challenge to potato farming, leading to significant economic repercussions and threats to food security. Understanding the influence of climate on PVY is pivotal in tackling this viral menace. Climatic conditions, including temperature, precipitation, and humidity, play a key role in the behavior of aphids, the primary vectors of PVY, thereby impacting the disease's prevalence in potato fields. With climate change modifying these key weather variables, there's a looming risk of enhanced PVY spread and a shift in its geographical presence. Recognizing and adapting to these climate-induced changes is vital for formulating effective strategies and sustainable practices to counter PVY's effects, safeguarding potato crops from this major viral threat. This analysis delves into the complex dynamics between climate change and PVY, focusing on how changes in weather patterns influence the virus's behavior and impact, with the aim of enhancing our preparedness and response to this agricultural challenge.