Workshop Overview

This workshop will provide state-of–the art information on breeding vegetable crops for resistance to whitefly-transmitted viruses, with an emphasis on tomato and Tomato yellow leaf curl virus. The workshop topics are geared towards useful and practical knowledge for those working or planning to work in the development of resistance to whitefly-transmitted viruses. Whitefly-transmitted viruses, the Begomoviruses and Criniviruses, have emerged as major constraints in vegetable production around the world. Crop resistance, while the most cost-effective method for crop loss management, is very challenging to develop and there are many demand for resistance to these viruses in a wide array of crop species. This workshop will address the difficulties involved in developing resistance to whitefly-transmitted viruses and provide practical and relevant answers from three experts who have years of experience manipulating these viruses and their whitefly vectors as well as in the development of host resistance to whitefly-transmitted viruses.

Participants will learn the current taxonomy, biological and molecular characteristics of Begomoviruses and Criniviruses, and the whiteflies species and biotypes that transmit them. They will learn various methods for the detection and manipulation of these viruses and receive appropriate and practical laboratory protocols for detection. Participants will learn the pros and cons of the various methods used for mass inoculation (whitefly, biolistic, Agroinoculation), with a special focus on the critical aspects needed for successful whitefly inoculation. Topics to be covered include - how to set up and maintain whitefly colonies and virus cultures, screening germplasm for resistance using whiteflies, the methods used to evaluate resistance, and a demonstration of various types of equipment used to manipulate whiteflies. The format of the course is lecture and demonstration presented by internationally recognized experts in this field. Each participant will receive a set of the lecture notes, relevant protocols, as well as a CD containing all the presentations. Ample time will be allocated for discussion, and participants are encouraged to bring questions and concerns from their experiences.

The workshop provides 14 highly focused hours of instruction and useful information on whitefly-transmitted viruses, protocols for working with whitefly-transmitted viruses, and a Certificate of Attendance, which will be provided upon conclusion. Enrollment is limited to 25, so register early to secure a place in the workshop. Advance registration is required.