Cucurbit virus infects melons

Cucurbit yellow stunting disorder virus has been detected in Arizona melon fields for the first time, according to a North American Plant Protection Organization alert. The virus is also suspected of infecting melons in California’s Imperial Valley. DNA testing was being conducted to verify.

Transmitted by whitefly (Bemisia tabaci), the virus causes yellowing of the older leaves and is closely related to lettuce infectious yellow virus. The virus, which appears to be exclusive to the cucurbit family, is considered difficult to control because of the lack of resistant cultivars and the vector’s ability to become resistant to insecticides.

Native to the Middle East, the virus was previously detected in Texas where it caused a reduction in melon yields and quality.

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For more: North American Plant Protection Organization, 1431 Merivale Road, 3rd Floor, Room 309, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1A 0Y9; imcdonell@inspection.gc.ca; www.pestalert.org.