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Variations of Leek yellow stripe virus Concentration in Garlic and Its Incidence in Argentina

The purpose of this work was to determine variations in titer of Leek yellow stripe virus (LYSV) throughout the crop cycle and bulb storage, and to evaluate the incidence of infected plants in the main garlic-production regions of Argentina. One hundred plants with LYSV from each of five cultivars were analyzed by double-antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (DAS-ELISA) in six different vegetative stages in White- and Red-type garlic cultivars and seven stages in cv. Rosado Paraguayo, throughout the year. In two White-type garlic cultivars, LYSV showed peaks of viral concentration in May, at the beginning of the crop cycle, and in November, just before harvest. In two Red-type garlic selections, an increase was detected in November (period of bulbing). The highest virus titers for these four garlic cultivars were detected in devernalized clove. In Rosado Paraguayo, the peak virus concentration occurred in September prior to harvesting. In a survey at 14 different localities in Argentina, 3,066 random samples were analyzed. LYSV was found in 80 to 98% of the plants from all regions, except in Santa Cruz, where 34% of plants were infected. The importance of this study is that it allows us to recommend the most suitable moment of the year to make the analysis with DAS-ELISA.