Transmission characteristics of allexiviruses by the eriophyid mite, Aceria tulipae (Keifer) (Acari: Eriophyidae) from naturally mixed infected garlic (Allium sativum L.)

The transmission characteristics of members of the genus Allexivirus to leek (Allium porrum L.) by its eriophyid mite vector, Aceria tulipae (Keifer), were studied. Prior to conducting transmission tests, colonies of nonviruliferous A. tulipae were established on healthy leek seedlings. A single A. tulipae transmitted the viruses with up to 50% efficiency but transmission efficiency increased when >10 mites per plant were used. Allexiviruses were acquired by A. tulipae after a minimum acquisition access period (AAP) of 30 min, whereas transmission tests suggest that a one hour inoculation access period (IAP) was needed for successful transmission. Allexiviruses were transmitted from garlic to leek plants by A. tulipae and mixed infections by more than one virus were observed. ShVX, GarV-A, -C, -D, and -B were detected in most inoculated plants, whereas other members of the genus (GarV-E, −X, and GarMbFV) were found only occasionally. None of the mites that originated from eggs deposited on infected plants transmitted allexiviruses, indicating that the viruses are not transmitted transovarially. No latent period was demonstrated. Taken together, these data suggest a semipersistent mode of transmission of Allexivirus members by A. tulipae. The output of this study will assist in the better management of the vector and the associated diseases.