Detection and Diversity of Viruses Affecting the Production of Dioscorea Rotundata in West Africa-A Review

Yam (Dioscorea spp.) is recognized as one of the most important staple crops in West Africa, to the extent where descendants of southeastern Nigeria refer to it as the “King of Tuber Crops.†However, research reports over the decades have shown that the destructive activities of yam pathogens, particularly viruses, pose a serious threat to its production and exchange in West Africa. To identify and ensure propagation of clean germplasm, there is a vital need for the development and deployment of robust, rapid, highly sensitive, and cost-effective molecular diagnostic tools. This review, thus, provides insight into the advances in yam viruses’ detection methods, their efficacy, and their efficiency. Furthermore, to provide an overview of the diverse management strategies used to mitigate the impact of these diseases on yam (Dioscorea rotundata) growers in West Africa.