First report of Euphorbia mosaic virus in Cuba
In January 2007, unusual symptoms were observed in tobacco plants (Nicotiana tabacum) in a field in the eastern part of Cuba. These symptoms included downward curling, rugosity and yellow mottle of leaves with a reduction in plant height. Affected leaves could no longer be used for the manufacture of cigarettes. Laboratory analysis revealed the presence of Euphorbia mosaic virus (Begomovirus, EuMV – EU Annexes). It is stated that additional work is now needed to determine the epidemiological risk of the presence of this virus on tobacco in Cuba. In particular, it is noted that studies should be done on Euphorbia heterophylla (a known host plant of EuMV) because it is a common weed in many cultivated areas in Cuba which could act as a reservoir and thus contribute to disease spread. This is the first time that EuMV is reported from Cuba, and from tobacco plants.
The situation of Euphorbia mosaic virus in Cuba can be described as follows: Present, first detected in 2007 in one tobacco field.
Sources
Fiallo-Olivé E, Rivera-Bustamante RF, Martínez-Zubiaur Y (2009) First report of tobacco as a natural host of Euphorbia mosaic virus in Cuba. New Disease Reports Volume 20 (2009-09 to 2010-01). http://www.bspp.org.uk/publications/new-disease-reports/ndr.php?id=020005