Which symptom is typically associated with tomato spotted wilt tospovirus?

The symptom of bronzing spots leading to necrotic spots is indeed a hallmark of infection with tomato spotted wilt tospovirus. This viral pathogen often manifests by causing characteristic leaf patterns, where initial bronzing may occur, followed by the development of necrotic lesions. These symptoms are indicative of the systemic nature of the virus within the plant and often lead to substantial declines in plant health and crop yield.

Other symptoms associated with this virus can include yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and leaf curling, but they are not as specifically defining as the bronzing and necrotic spots. This specific symptom is crucial for diagnostic purposes, allowing growers and pathologists to identify the presence of tomato spotted wilt tospovirus and to subsequently implement appropriate management strategies.