THE TOMATO BROWN RUGOSE FRUIT VIRUS IS RESTRICTED TO SPECIFIC AREAS IN SONORA, MEXICO - A STUDY OF 2021-2022 SEASON

Abstract

Background: Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) has spread worldwide affecting tomato crop production in several countries. Although there are commercial ToBRFV-resistant tomato varieties; still, careful monitoring of its prevalence is necessary for establishing feasible epidemiological control programs. Since Sonora has a strategic geographic location for tomato cultivation and export, studies on the detection and prevention of ToBRFV outbreaks are pertinent as part of the actions to achieve the eradication of this virus. Objective: To determine the recent prevalence of ToBRFV in tomato-producing areas of the state of Sonora, Mexico in the period 2021-2022, using a combination of molecular and serological tools. Methodology: Samples of tomato leaves and fruits were collected from commercial greenhouses in different regions of Sonora from September 2021 to June 2022. Forty-four tomato leaves and 42 seed samples were analyzed for ToBRFV using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and by direct detection of viral epitopes by immunochromatography. Results: 60% and 48% of the samples tested positive for ToBRFV by immunochromatography and RT-qPCR, respectively, showing an exact agreement regarding the samples’ origin. Implications: Future research may focus on genomic analysis of viral isolates that would provide clues of ToBRFV propagation speed and emergence of particular viral strains typical of the place of origin. Conclusion: The presence of ToBRFV in the state of Sonora, Mexico is limited to specific geographic sites, which suggests that local regulations and phytosanitary actions have worked to control the spread of the virus.

Keywords

• tobrfv
• tobamoviruses
• sonora
• tomato