The Role of Prunus Spinosa L. in Epidemiology of Plum Pox Virus in the Czech Republic

Abstract

Plum pox virus (PPV) was proved by ELISA in Prunus spinosa in the Czech Republic. The percentage of plants infected with PPV out of sixty eight tested was 17,6. Blackthorn plants infected with PPV showed distinct symptoms in leaves. Symptoms were very similar to those on plums. Blackthorn is suggested as secondary source of PPV infection. Its role in the epidemiology of PPV is probably very limited. Prune dwarf virus (PDV) was proved in twenty five blackthorns out of sixty tested, i.e. 41,7% plants were infected. PDV was latent in blackthorns, occasionally were observed very mild symptoms, Prunus spinosa is an important source of PDV infection.