Assessment of Aphid Vector Populations and Virus Disease Incidence in Pepper (Capsicum spp.) Farms in Imo State, South East Nigeria

Pepper production in South East Nigeria generates substantial income for smallholder farmers, but viral diseases transmitted by aphid vectors reduce yields and quality significantly across the region. Imo State is a leading pepper producer in South East Nigeria, yet systematic data linking aphid population dynamics to virus disease incidence in this context are lacking. This study assesses aphid vector populations and their relationship to pepper virus disease incidence across farms in Imo State over two growing seasons. Suction traps and yellow water pan traps will be deployed on 40 pepper farms in Owerri, Okigwe, and Orlu LGAs to monitor aphid alate populations weekly. Virus symptom incidence (mosaic, chlorosis, and stunting) will be scored on 30 plants per farm fortnightly. Aphid species will be identified from trap catches, and ELISA testing will confirm virus species present. Regression analysis will model relationships between peak aphid density and subsequent virus incidence. The study will determine critical aphid density thresholds above which virus spread significantly accelerates, providing an economic threshold basis for aphid management. Results will support the Imo State Ministry of Agriculture in developing pepper virus management guidelines for extension delivery. Keywords: aphid vectors, pepper virus, Capsicum, Imo State, virus incidence