SURVEY OF YAM (DIOSCOREA SPP.)VIRUS DISEASES IN BENUE STATE

ABSTRACT Yam (Dioscorea spp.) is a major staple food for most people of Nigeria and the country accounts for the highest production (65-70%) of the crop worldwide. It contributes most of the calorie requirement for each day. This survey explores the socioeconomic importance of yam production, the effect of the spread of viruses on yam production in Benue state; determine how yam viruses spread on yam in Benue State. Out of the 23 Local government of Benue State, 9 local governments areas were randomly selected, three fields were sampled randomly in each of the local government areas and a total of 27 fields in the three agricultural zones were sampled, sampling in each field was carried out following a ”W” shaped movement pattern through the field while examining yam plants randomly for any virus diseases symptoms. Collected data were treated using ANOVA and means were separated using FLSD, (P ≤ = 0.05). Agronomic and social data were subjected to descriptive analysis. The survey revealed a notable prevalence of several viral infections affecting yam crops. Common virus identified includes yam mosaic, chlorosis, shoe sting, leaf curl, to mention but a few. The study confirmed that these diseases exhibit diverse symptoms, including stunted growth and leaf distortion. Difficulties involved in differentiating symptoms of yam virus infection from those caused by nutritional disorders, some pests and pathogens is also a major challenge to researchers. Achievement of real progress in the management of yam virus research requires a holistic approach involving continuous gathering of information, development of adequate field diagnostic tools, extension of research to all areas of yam cultivation in the world, selection of virus-resistant yam varieties, use of virus-free certified planting material and intensive education of the farmers on the economic importance of yam viruses and the interplaying factors involved in its management.