First record of Tomato chlorosis crinivirus in Lebanon
In Lebanon, during studies done to evaluate the possible resistance of local tomato accessions to Tomato yellow leaf curl begomovirus (EPPO A2 list), the presence of another virus Tomato chlorosis crinivirus (ToCV - EPPO A2 list) was detected. 22 samples were then collected from tomato plants showing yellowing symptoms on lower leaves. Samples were taken from 2 commercial greenhouses in the Damour coastal area (south of Beirut), where the first finding had been made. 6 samples tested positive for ToCV using RT-PCR. This is the first report of ToCV in Lebanon. The incidence and distribution of ToCV has not yet been investigated. However, on the basis of symptoms and preliminary RT-PCR results, the disease does not appear to be widespread.
The situation of Tomato chlorosis crinivirus in Lebanon can be described as follows: Present, first reported in 2006, preliminary results suggest limited distribution and low incidence.
Sources
Abou-Jawdah Y, El Mohtar C, Atamian H, Sobh H (2006) First report of Tomato chlorosis virus in Lebanon. Plant Disease 90(3), p 378.