Identification and Distribution of Some Viral Diseases of Solanaceous in Côte D’ivoire

Tomato, pepper and eggplant belong to the forty vegetable species most produced in the world (FAO, 2008). These solanaceous plants, which are sources of vitamins, serve as a source of nutritional supplements especially among low income populations, that subsist on diets of cereals and starchy foods. They are a source of income and employment for small rural and peri-urban farmers. As a result of their tolerance to various climates, they are cultivated in all agro-ecological zones of tropical and subtropical areas, throughout the year. However, their production is inhibited by many constraints, some of which are biotic involving fungi, bacteria and viruses. In May 2013, sampling of leaves of the three solanaceous plants was carried out in various zones of production in Côte d'ivoire (Songon, Divo, Sinfra and Djèbonoua). On the basis of viral symptoms observed on the leaves, 117 samples were collected. Serological tests, DAS-ELISA, TAS-ELISA and ACP-ELISA, were used to detect viruses using specific antibodies. The presence of Cucumber mosaïc virus (CMV) and Pepper veinal mottle virus (PVMV) was confirmed in Côte d'Ivoire. On the other hand, no sample was found positive with Tomato Yellow Leaf Curl Virus (TYLCV), using the TAS-ELISA method. With the ACP-ELISA method, a new virus which could be Potato virus Y (PVY-n) was highlighted for the first time in Côte d'Ivoire. On the whole, the production of solanaceous plants in Côte d'Ivoire is threatened by viral diseases. Adequate support should be given to farmers to guarantee a healthy and durable production of solanaceous food crops.