How to Manage Pests

UC Pest Management Guidelines

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Mosaic pattern and deformed zucchini fruit caused by Squash mosaic virus.

Cucurbits

Squash Mosaic Virus

Pathogen: Squash mosaic virus

(Reviewed 11/05, updated 6/08)

In this Guideline:

SYMPTOMS AND SIGNS

Symptoms of squash mosaic include mosaic patterns and mottling of the leaf along with deformed fruit.

COMMENTS ON THE DISEASE

The virus is vectored by the spotted cucumber beetle (Diabrotica spp.) and other related beetles. The beetles can retain the virus up to 20 days after feeding on an infected plant. The virus is also seed-borne.

MANAGEMENT

Use virus-free seed to eliminate primary inoculum.

PUBLICATION

[UC Peer Reviewed]

UC IPM Pest Management Guidelines: Cucurbits
UC ANR Publication 3445

Diseases

R. M. Davis, Plant Pathology, UC Davis
T. A. Turini, UC Cooperative Extension, Imperial County
B. J. Aegerter, UC Cooperative Extension, San Joaquin County
J. J. Stapleton, UC IPM Program, Kearney Agricultural Center, Parlier

Acknowledgment for contributions to Diseases:
W. D. Gubler, Plant Pathology, UC Davis

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