Australia
December 9, 2009

South Australian Research & Development Institute (SARDI) senior pulse pathologist Jenny Davidson is encouraging growers to test pulse seed stocks for virus content as part of planning for next year’s cropping program.

She says virus infection has been widespread in pulse crops in 2009 with varying levels of severity. “Surveys and diagnostic tests have shown three to be most prevalent.

These are Cucumber Mosaic Virus (CMV) and Pea Seedborne Mosaic Virus (PSbMV), both of which can be spread to the new crop via contaminated seed, and Beet Western Yellow Virus (BWYV), which is not seed borne,” Ms Davidson said.

All viruses are transmitted between plants and crops by aphids.

“Virus surveys in previous seasons have shown that CMV is often present in lentil crops in South Australia. Lentil seed should be tested for CMV infection as it is a significant source for disease epidemics. Aphids transfer the virus to other crops, including chickpeas. Chickpea seed should also be tested because while CMV infection in chickpea seed is often low, it is very susceptible once the virus starts to spread. Pea seed should also be tested for PSbMV, particularly because the virus is widespread across South Australia and could cause significant yield loss.”

SARDI’s research into pulse diseases is supported by growers and the Australian Government through the Grains Research and Development Corporation.

For more information on pulse ratings, contact Dr Jenny Davidson at SARDI on 08 8303 9389 or via jenny.davidson@sa.gov.au

Website: http://www.grdc.com.au

Published: December 9, 2009