<i>Potyvirus</i> Affecting Uchuva (<i>Physalis peruviana</i> L.) in Centro Agropecuario Marengo, Colombia

Abstract

Fruit production and especially fresh tropical fruit trade, has an important relevance on world economy. Refining knowledge on virus diseases affecting tropical fruits is required to improve the understanding of these diseases, their dynamics and consequently, the ability to manage them. In this paper, samples of “uchuva” plants ( Physalis peruviana L.) obtained from Centro Agropecuario Marengo (CAM) Municipality of Mosquera, Cundinamarca region of Colombia were analyzed after expressing symptoms of leaf chlorosis, leaf malformation, mosaic patterns and dwarfing. Electron microscopy revealed the presence of two different viral particles congruent with Potyvirus and Tobamovirus genus morphology. The presence of Potyvirus affecting the P. peruviana L . culture was confirmed in the samples analyzed by means of electronic microscopy images and serology. Similarly, the existence of viral particles with coherent characteristics of a putative Tobamovirus was observed. However, its presence could not be confirmed by means of serological tests. Nevertheless, its incidence should not be neglected. The mechanism of Potyvirus disease transmission in P. peruviana L. remains unknown, as well as the vectors associated with this disease. Therefore, complementary work and research should be considered. In addition to serology and electron microscopy, the use of indicator plants for diagnosis is suggested. Finally, a complete molecular characterization of the Potyvirus is recommended for a better understanding of the characteristics of its association with P. peruviana L.