Distribution and Alternative Hosts of Taro Bacilliform Badnavirus in Samoa.

Abstract

The distribution and alternate hosts of Taro bacilliform badnavirus was investigated through field surveys for infected taro plants on Upolu and Savaii islands in Samoa during 2001. investigations into alternative hosts were carried out through field surveys for symptoms of infection on non-taro plants growing within or around taro farms on Upolu Island, in both cases, and in addition to visual observation for symptoms of infection by the virus, plant specimens were collected and subjected to PCR-based diagnostic tests for the virus. Results for the distribution of Taro bacilliform virus revealed that the virus occurs on both Upolu and Savaii islands. The findings further showed that the virus is presently more widespread than was found by an earlier investigator. Alternative host studies revealed that Xanthosoma sp., Alocasia macrorrhiza, and Commelina benghalensis are natural hosts of the virus.