SUSTAINABLE MANAGEMENT OF VIRUS YELLOWS IN SUGAR BEET

Sugar beet crops are severely affected by so-called yellowing viruses transmitted by aphids. Among these viruses are beet yellows virus (BYV), beet mild yellowing virus (BMYV), beet mosaic virus (BtMV), beet western yellows virus (BWYV) and beet chlorosis virus (BChV), which can occur alone or in combination. These viruses cause yellowing of foliage and result in yield losses of up to 50% in both root yield and sugar content. Because virus yellows is transmitted semi-persistently or persistently by aphids, effective aphid control is an important factor in controlling the disease. The overall objective of this PhD study is to develop a sustainable control strategy for virus yellows in sugar beet, with an important focus on identifying risk factors, increasing plant resistance to aphids, and biological aphid control. The project should result in new, effective strategies to sustainably improve the control of yellowing viruses in sugar beet. This will allow us to further exploit the socio-economic benefits of integrated pest management (IPM), ensuring crop productivity and harvest security with minimal environmental impact.