Blackberry yellow vein associated virus: a new virus of Rubus
In the USA during the last five years a new disease of blackberry (Rubus spp.) has emerged in Arkansas, North Carolina and South Carolina. Affected plants show leaf distortion, vein banding, mottling and in some cases they die. Molecular studies have revealed the presence of a new Crinivirus tentatively called Blackberry yellow vein associated virus (BYVaV). Molecular and immunological assays have been developed for the detection of BYVaV, and the examination of symptomatic plants has shown a close association of disease symptoms with the presence of BYVaV although the virus was also detected in symptomless plants. Efforts are being made to identify a potential vector of this virus.
Sources
Susaimuthu J, Tzanetakis IE, Gergerich RC, Martin RR (2006) Yellow vein-affected blackberries and the presence of a novel Crinivirus. Plant Pathology 55(5), 607-613.