Presence and incidence of grapevine viruses in the Central Zone of Chile

In growing seasons from 1996 to 2000, surveys were conducted in order to determine the incidence of Grape Fan Leaf Virus (GFLV), Grape Leaf Roll Virus (GLRV), Tomato Ringspot Virus (ToRSV) y Cherry Leaf Roll Virus (CLRV) in production and propagation material of grapevines. A total of 16974 samples from 33 localities were studied. In all sites, samples were collected from every 10th row, and on each row from every 10th plant. All samples were tested by ELISA using antisera of the indicated viruses. The results showed viral infection in 84.8% of the sites. The total incidence of GFLV was 0.2%, GLRV 0.6%, ToRSV 8.6% and CLRV 0.2%. However, variation was observed in viral incidence within sites ranging between 0 and 72.6%. The incidence of viral infection in mother material for propagation was 22.1%. It is concluded that the ToRSV is the most prevalent virus in Central Chile