GM Papaya

The leaves of virus-infected papaya trees appear mottled and malformed. Tropical fruits like the papaya are an important, traditional part of the household diet of families in developing countries. Not only does a papaya taste good, it is rich in vitamins A and C. Moreover, papayas are easy to grow. Subsistence farmers grow papayas in their backyards or in small plantings for their own consumption and sell off modest surpluses in local markets.

The leaves of virus-infected papaya trees appear mottled and malformed

A papaya tree usually bears mature fruit within 10 months of planting and fruits all year around. These are some of the reasons why it is a very popular subsistence food. However, its importance in developing countries is often underrated, as most papaya production does not enter the trading sector.

Ringspots and streaks are common symptoms of virus-infected

Papaya crops suffer from several diseases and pests. The most widespread is papaya ringspot virus (PRSV). This virus has drastically affected papaya production in important growing areas. It has had a devastating effect on the livelihood of subsistence farmers in the tropics. The virus reduces fruit quality and quantity and eventually kills the trees.

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