Status of Legume Viruses in Nigeria

ABSTRACT Legumes are very important food crops widely cultivated for their high quality proteins, vitamins and oils. They are consumed by humans and livestock, and incorporated as secondary crops in most farming systems for sustenance and maintenance of soil structure and fertility. Legumes suffer from a complex of pests and are particularly susceptible to virus diseases. The diseases vary from one leguminous crop to another, and from location to location. This paper discusses the status of research on viruses of the most important leguminous crops in Nigeria. Areas which need further research are also discussed.