[1] Early on, the identity of the pathogen was highly contested due to the inability of isolating it; thus Koch’s postulates could not be fulfilled.
[1] Scientists have previously believed that Papaya Bunchy Top Disease was caused by a virus, a mycoplasma-like organism (MLO), or a phytoplasma, but these possible pathogens have since been disproven.
[3] Papaya Bunchy Top is found throughout the American tropics and has been economically important due to its major impact on fruit production.
[5] Early symptoms are chlorosis and stunting of young leaves, accompanied by internode and petiole elongation.
[7] Development rate and severity of symptoms are highly variable due to host, genotype, and region.
[5] Use of clean propagation material and quick removal of diseased trees are also important to prevent spread.
[5] The application of antibiotics, such as chlortetracycline or tetracycline hydrochloride, into the soil around infected plants has shown some success in treating Papaya Bunchy Top Disease but has yet to become commercially available.
This can cause major agriculture losses within the American tropics, leading to economic impacts.