A dynamical model for epidemic outbursts by begomovirus population clusters

The ability of such a model to reproduce qualitatively correct epidemic structures indicates that the main reason for epidemic outbursts and the global spreading of the disease could be found in the patterns of inter-species interactions, many of which are human-induced. If this is the case, then the key to mitigating begomovirus epidemics would be the modification of agricultural practices. In particular, the use of intensive cropping patterns and resistant cultivars triggers aggressive virus adaptability through mutation speed-up. It seems that the only simple recourse would be to develop more diverse and less concentrated cropping patterns, both in cropland extent and in time.