Geographical Distribution,Identification and Control Methods of Citrus Tristeza Virus and Its Effects on Citrus Production

Citrus is one of the most economically important fruit crops grown by smallholders and commercial farmers in Ethiopia. Citrus production and productivity in Ethiopia is seriously threatened by various diseases including citrus Tristeza Virus.Therefore, the aim of this review is to acess the production status and possible control measures of Citrus Tristeza Virus under Ethiopian condition. Citrus is among the most important fruit crops in Ethiopia. Its cultivation started in Upper Awash valley and Melkassa areas in central Ethiopia.Citrus Tisteza Virus epidemiology is significantly affected by the citrus cultivar and horticultural practices the most important factors are the Citrus Tristeza Virus isolate and the aphid vector. Morphologically the virus is small sized with rod Since the virus is phloem-limited, most Citrus Tristeza Virus symptoms are associated with viral disruption of phloem and its function. Natural spread of the virus is primarily through propagation of infected bud wood and by aphids but is not seed-borne. Control strategies for virus differ according to the incidence and severity of the Citrus tristeza virus isolates in an area and with the cultivars and root stocks used. No single control strategy is applicable in all situations. Preventive efforts should be made to avoid introduction of Citrus Tristeza Virus into the growing area by having quarantines on importation of live citrus tissue.The virus control strategies should include exclusion of the pathogen , application of planting material certification, total eradication and suppression of diseased plant, using resistant/tolerant root stock, tolerant scions,crossprotection,vector control and integrated disease management are possible control methods.Therefore,the development of integrated disease management is best and environmentally friendly alternative for practices for the management of virus and can go a long way in maintaining a sustainable environment.