Aegean necrosis virus

The Aegean necrosis virus (AeNV) is a distinct member of the Nepovirus genus within the Secoviridae family. As a systemic plant pathogen, it primarily infiltrates the phloem and vascular tissues of host plants, severely hindering the translocation of nutrients and water. Its classification as a nepovirus (nematode-transmitted polyhedral virus) highlights its reliance on soil-dwelling vectors for transmission.

While primarily recognized for its impact on grapevines (Vitis vinifera), the virus has a significant range of potential hosts. The transmission cycle involves both biotic and abiotic vectors: it is naturally spread by soil-inhabiting nematodes of the genus Xiphinema, and human-mediated through contaminated pruning tools or the use of infected propagation materials.

Symptoms typically manifest as necrotic rings, leaf chlorosis, and severe foliar deformations. Infected grapevines often exhibit reduced vigor, shortened internodes, and stunted development. In severe cases, growers report significant yield losses due to poor fruit set and the progressive decline of the overall plant health over several growing seasons.

Environmental conditions that favor the spread of this virus are closely tied to the lifecycle of its nematode vectors. Moist, well-structured soils provide ideal habitats for Xiphinema populations to flourish, facilitating the spread of the virus across vineyard rows. Warm growing seasons further accelerate the rate of virus replication and symptoms expression within the plant tissues.

Currently, there are no chemical treatments available to cure plants once they are infected with Nepovirus aegaeum. Management strategies must focus on strict prevention:

• Utilizing certified virus-free nursery stock.
• Implementing soil testing for nematode vectors before vineyard establishment.
• Strict sterilization of pruning equipment using chemical disinfectants.
• Immediate roguing and destruction of symptomatic plants to minimize inoculum pressure.