Seed Transmission of Dahlia mosaic virus in Dahlia pinnata

• Published in: Plant disease Vol. 91; no. 1; pp. 88 - 91
• Main Authors: Pahalawatta, V, Druffel, K, Pappu, H.R
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 2007
• Subjects: cotyledons; Dahlia mosaic virus; Dahlia pinnata; disease detection; disease transmission; plant diseases and disorders; plant viruses; pollen; polymerase chain reaction; seed pathology; seedlings; testa
• ISSN: 0191-2917; 1943-7692
• DOI: 10.1094/PD-91-0088

Dahlia is an economically important ornamental crop in the United States and several other countries in the world. Among the viral diseases that affect dahlia, Dahlia mosaic virus (DMV) is considered to be the most widespread and to have the greatest impact on flower production. Using grow-out tests followed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based testing of the seedlings, dahlia seed obtained from three different sources were shown to contain DMV. Additionally, the distribution of DMV in various parts of the dahlia seed was determined by PCR. Grow-out tests revealed a high rate of seed transmission. DMV was detected in cotyledons and, rarely, in the seed coat. The virus also was detected in pollen collected from infected plants. In addition to vegetative propagation, seedborne infection could be contributing to the spread of DMV in dahlia. Use of virus-free seed and vegetative material would result in reduced incidence of the disease.