Cacao swollen shoot virus (Caulimoviridae)

Cacao swollen shoot virus (CSSV) is causing the major viral disease on cacao (Theobroma cacao) and it is naturally transmitted by mealybugs species. CSSV is restricted to West Africa and is a serious constraint to cacao production, particularly in Ghana. From the high molecular variability of the virus, a complex of 8 viral species has been recognized and the geographical repartition of these species has been done in Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana and Togo. Measures to control the disease are discussed.