Tobacco Streak Virus (TSV) in Cotton - scoping study

Abstract

This project aims to examine the possible impact of Tobacco Streak Virus (TSV) on the Australian cotton industry. TSV is transmitted by thrips, causes a disease which has had a significant impact on grain crops in Central Queensland and a preliminary study in 2007 has shown that cotton is also susceptible to field infection in this region, but many questions remain unanswered.

This project aims to:
• Determine the impact of TSV in “normal” seasons.
• Survey New South Wales and Queensland crops and determine alternative weed and crop hosts.
• Assess yield-loss in cotton due to TSV, and factors that lead to systemic infection.
• Assess thrips vector species present in cotton
• Provide extension material on the impact and management of TSV in cotton