Tomato Mosaic Virus Infection in a Recirculating Nutrient Solution

Abstract

Abstract We studied the behaviour of tomato mosaic tobamovirus (ToMV) in a recirculating nutrient solution. Particles of tomato mosaic virus were found in the nutrient solution 3 days after leaf inoculation of plants and we demonstrated that the level could increase to a concentration readily detectable by electron microscopy. Virions remained infective in nutrient solution for at least 6 months, could infect bait plants and induced systemic symptoms within 10 days. This is the first report of measurement of infective virions in recirculating nutrient solutions. Hydroponic producers should be aware of the potential for rapid spread of virus diseases in soilless growing systems as one infected plant can serve as a source of inoculum that can ultimately result in an epidemic.