Role of viruses in cultivation and utilization of Syringa L. crops

Abstract

   The study presents data on the species composition of Syringa viruses in the ecosystems of the Tsitsin Main Botanical Garden of Academy of Sciences and describes their phenotypes. The tested Syringa populations revealed symptoms typical of viral pathogens (chlorosis, ring spot, banded chlorosis, mosaic, vein clearing, mottle, necrosis and various types of distortions). The virological examination identified specialized pathogens of Lilac ring mottle virus, as well as previously unreported viruses such as Carnation mottle virus, Cucumber mosaic virus, Alfalfa mosaic virus, and Potato virus Y. Monitoring results showed that the prevalence of polyhostal viruses with a wide range of host plants, which are not typical of lilac culture but specific for other crops, is considered as a characteristic feature of Syringa plantations. The frequency of occurrence was determined for 7 viruses. Analyzing individual genotypes for the presence of viruses typically reveals different levels of their prevalence. Cucumber mosaic virus demonstrates the highest frequency of occurrence (55-70 % of samples), followed by Arabis mosaic virus, Tobacco mosaic virus, Elm mottle virus, Potato virus Y, Carnation mottle virus (45 %, 43 %, 37 %, 28 %, 13 %, respectively). Lilac ring mottle virus was detected in only 7 % of the samples. The study focuses on the predominant prevalence of mixed infections, where two or more viruses were noted. Infection with single viruses was detected in only 40 % of the tested samples. The study discusses the adaptability of pathogens and emphasizes the risk of synergistic diseases and increase in infection rates in Syringa crops.