Comprehensive virome analysis of potato crops in Bangladesh reveals diverse viral communities and the first report of potato virus V

Abstract Potato crops in Bangladesh are significantly threatened by viral diseases, underscoring the need for comprehensive virome profiling to inform sustainable management strategies. In this study, we employed high-throughput sequencing (HTS) to characterize the viral diversity in symptomatic potato leaves collected from five major potato-growing districts. A total of 10 distinct viruses were identified, representing six families and nine genera. Among these viruses, potato virus X (PVX) was the most abundant, followed by potato virus Y (PVY) and potato virus S (PVS). Notably, potato virus V (PVV) was detected for the first time in Bangladesh and, to our knowledge, not previously reported in South Asia. Additionally, we assembled the complete genome sequence of a potato virus A (PVA) isolate from Bangladesh, which was highly similar to previously reported PVA genomes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the Bangladeshi PVA and PVV isolates share close evolutionary relationships with global strains, particularly those from Europe and the Americas, suggesting historical or trade-related linkages. Co-infection analysis showed a high frequency of mixed infections, with PVY, PVS, and potato leafroll virus (PLRV) being the most common combinations. The correlation analysis identified strong statistical associations among specific viruses [e.g., between potato aucuba mosaic virus (PAMV) and tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus (ToLCNDV)], indicating frequent co-occurrence patterns that warrant further investigation; however, causal mechanisms were not inferred from these data. Geospatial analysis revealed that Dinajpur and Panchagarh districts had the highest overall viral prevalence, while Thakurgaon exhibited the lowest diversity of infections. These findings highlight the complexity of the potato virome in Bangladesh, emphasizing the threat posed by the dominance of PVY and the emergence of novel viruses like PVV. This study provides a foundational framework for future research on potato virus epidemiology and paves the way for sustainable agricultural practices to mitigate the impact of viral infections on potato production in Bangladesh.