Severe <i>Citrus tristeza virus</i>Isolates from Eastern Mexico Are Related to the T36 Genotype Group

Citrus tristeza virus (CTV) outbreaks have been reported in the main citrus growing region of Mexico in the past four years. Recently, in eastern Mexico (the major citrus-growing region in the country), severe CTV isolates have been detected. However, the molecular identity of observed isolates remains unestablished. This research was undertaken to elucidate the molecular characterization of CTV populations spreading in this region and to compare it with phylogeny of existing isolates. Genotyping of 32 collected isolates was performed using reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with sequence analysis of the coat protein (CP) gene, putatively associated with pathogenicity. This protein is a 25 kDa major capsid protein, which forms a long virion body coating 95% of the particle length. A comparative sequence analysis was performed using CTV sequences from different geographical origins already published and deposited in the GenBank databases. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the degree of sequence divergence among isolates correlated with their pathogenicity. Based on the sequencing results, the collected isolates were categorizedn as mild or severe phylogenetic clusters, each being genetically distinct. The severe group was associated with either a-like or with a T36-like genotype. The latter group matched with the quick decline and stem pitting drastic symptoms observed in the field. This study identified the presence of severe CTV isolates related to the T36-like genotype and to the cause of quick decline and stem pitting in sweet orange propagated on sour orange rootstock. Knowledge derived from these analyses could serve to design management strategies for this disease and to understand the current epidemic outbreak in scenarios where the most efficient vector is present.

Prevalence of Mild T30, T3, and Severe VT Strains of Citrus tristeza Virus in Central-Northern Veracruz, Mexico

The presence and distribution of Citrus tristeza virus (CTV) strains on plants of four citrus species required analysis of plants showing small fruits, yellowing, and twig dieback. Typical citrus tristeza symptoms showed in citrus plantations in Veracruz, Mexico, and caused gradual deterioration, low yield, and death of the plants. Seven citrus-growing municipalities in Central and Northern Veracruz presented the severe VT strain: the incidence in seven of the eight sampled municipalities ranged from 7% in Alamo to 50% in Tihuatlan. As for the T30 strain, its presence and distribution ranged from 17% in Tihuatlan to 83% in Cuitlahuac. Values for the T3 strain went from 20% in Castillo de Teayo to 50% in Papantla. In Tihuatlan, two samples were positive for the T36 strain. Only Citrus sinensis has historical recording infections by severe strains of CTV, unlike other important citrus species. The incidence of orchards quickly declining increases rapidly in Veracruz, the largest citrus producer in Mexico. It becomes critical as the predominant and sensitive rootstock is sour orange (Citrus aurantium). It is important to note that the specific primers used could not be identified in 29% of the samples, suggesting that they could be other than T30, T3, VT, and T36 strains.

Good Things Come to Those Who Participate

It’s easy in China,especially Beijing,to go through the motions each day and become just one of 1.3 billion experiencing ordinary daily routines.In a country going through one of the biggest industrial revolutions known to man,things happen so quickly that the ones who just watch it go by get lost along the wayside.One thing I have learnt during my four-and-ahalf years in China is to get involved,no matter what it is---a conversation at the local shop, a game of Frisbee in the park, a football club, a roadside game of Chinese chess, an invitation from some locals for dinner, a hike through the mountains on the edge of the city--any activi- ties like these will break up those predictable daily routines and allow you to participate, and feel good about it.