MOLECULAR CHARACTERIZATION OF TOMATO MOSAIC VIRUS IN ADAMAWA STATE, NIGERIA

Tomato Mosaic Virus (ToMV) is a significant threat to tomato production worldwide, including Nigeria. This study aimed to molecularly characterize ToMV isolates from Song and Guyuk Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Adamawa State, Nigeria. Survey results recorded disease incidence of 33.33%, with Song showing the highest disease incidence and severity compared to Guyuk. Farmer demographics revealed 100% male participation, with 83% of farmers aged 25-40 years and 67% married. Farm characteristics included small-scale operations of 1-4 hectares, mixed cropping systems at 50% adoption, and market seed dependency at 66.67%. Primary vectors identified included armyworm (24%), aphids, and whiteflies (20%), with only 33.33% of farmers treating seeds before planting. Tomato fruit and leaf samples were collected, and ToMV infection was confirmed using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), yielding a 550-bp fragment of the coat protein gene. The study provides valuable information on the molecular characteristics of ToMV in the study area, informing the development of effective disease management strategies for farmers in Nigeria. Furthermore, the findings contribute to the broader understanding of ToMV epidemiology and support efforts toward developing resistant tomato varieties.