First report of banana bunchy top disease caused by Banana bunchy top virus in Uganda

Abstract

In August 2020, banana plants with characteristic symptoms of banana bunchy top disease (BBTD) caused by the Banana bunchy top virus (BBTV) were observed on two different banana (Musa sp.) mats in backyard gardens in Arua City (GPS coordinates: 2o59’36’’N 30o54’40’’E), West Nile region of Uganda. The plants were severely stunted with short, narrow leaves, chlorotic leaf margins and dark green streaks on petioles and midribs. The affected plants had a rosette-like or bunchy and choked appearance (Figures 1–2).