Summary
This systematic review re-evaluated historical records of plant viruses attributed to Myzus persicae against current ICTV taxonomic classification standards, establishing that the aphid transmits 196 valid RNA viruses and 1 viroid—substantially more than the commonly cited figure of >100. The authors identified the Potyviridae family as the largest group, distinguished Tier 1 viruses (Plum pox virus, Potato virus Y) causing global pandemics with economic costs exceeding $1 Bn annually, and Tier 2 viruses with significant regional impact, whilst noting that virus presence in Britain aligns well with Northwestern European patterns.
Regional applicability
The findings directly apply to United Kingdom horticultural and arable systems, as the study confirms that virus presence in GB matches Northwestern European distribution patterns. The identification of Tier 1 and Tier 2 viruses provides a framework relevant to UK pest management priorities and crop protection policy.
Key measures
Number of valid biological virus species transmitted by M. persicae; virus taxonomy classification (ICTV binomial names); transmission efficiency; economic impact tiers; geographic distribution of viruses in GB and Northwestern Europe
Outcomes reported
The study catalogued 196 valid plant virus species and 1 viroid transmitted by Myzus persicae using ICTV taxonomy classification, and categorised 15 of the world's most impactful agricultural viruses vectored by this aphid into Tier 1 (global impact >$1 Bn pa) and Tier 2 (significant regional/continental impact) groups.
Topic tags
Dig deeper with Pulse AI.
Ask about this record, its theme or its relevance to UK farming and policy. Pulse AI uses selected catalogue evidence and cites the sources it draws on.