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Seed Transmission of Dahlia mosaic virus in Dahlia pinnata

January 2007 , Volume 91 , Number  1
Pages  88 - 91

V. Pahalawatta , K. Druffel , and H. R. Pappu , Department of Plant Pathology, Washington State University, Pullman 99164-6430



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Accepted for publication 28 August 2006.
ABSTRACT

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. Growout 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.



© 2007 The American Phytopathological Society