Detection of <i>Apricot latent virus</i> and <i>Plum bark necrosis stem pitting‐associated virus</i> by RT‐PCR in Eastern Anatolia (Turkey)

Abstract

Field surveys were carried out to determine presence and incidence of Apricot latent virus (ApLV) and Plum bark necrosis stem pitting‐associated virus (PBNSPaV) in the main stone fruit growing areas of Eastern Anatolia. RT‐PCR and nested‐RT‐PCR techniques were used to detect ApLV and PBNSPaV, respectively. Three apricot samples out of 224 tested positive for ApLV, although infected trees showed no apparent disease symptoms. Of 45 sweet cherry and plum trees tested for PBNSPaV, 35 tested positive. Stem pitting symptoms were observed on the trunks of PBNSPaV‐infected sweet cherries. Trunk bark was spongy and thick; pits and grooves were observed on the woody cylinder. The overall incidence of ApLV was 1.3% and of PBNSPaV was 77%. This is the first report of ApLV and PBNSPaV in Eastern Anatolia, Turkey.