Pathological Threats to Vegetable Production in Pakistan: An Entomological and Fungal Perspective
Abstract
Abstract
Vegetable production in Pakistan faces growing threats from fungal pathogens and insect-borne viral diseases, both of which are intensifying under conditions of climatic variability. This study integrates plant pathology and entomology to analyze the eco-pathological dynamics of major vegetable crops, including potato, tomato, onion, chili, and cucurbits. Using a simulated survey of 200 farms across Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan, the study assessed disease incidence and severity, insect vector abundance, virus prevalence, climatic drivers, and farm-level management practices. Results indicate that potato late blight (Phytophthora infestans) and tomato Fusarium wilt were most severe in the northern and central provinces, while onion downy mildew (Peronospora destructor) and chili anthracnose (Colletotrichum capsici) were most prominent in Sindh. Whiteflies (Bemisia tabaci), aphids (Aphis gossypii), and thrips (Thrips tabaci) were strongly correlated with viral disease outbreaks, particularly tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV), cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), and tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV). Statistical models confirmed that rainfall and humidity drive fungal epidemics, while rising temperatures increase vector densities and viral transmission. Structural equation modeling demonstrated that climate influences yield losses indirectly through pathogen severity and vector activity. Resistant varieties and higher adoption of Integrated Pest and Disease Management (IPDM) significantly reduced outbreak risks, although emerging resistance to fungicides and insecticides was observed. The findings emphasize that Pakistan’s vegetable sector is highly vulnerable to climate-mediated pathological threats, but resilience can be enhanced through resistant varieties, IPDM adoption, early warning systems, and improved farmer training. Addressing these challenges is critical for safeguarding food security, farm incomes, and agricultural sustainability in Pakistan.
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