Raspberry ringspot virus

Raspberry ringspot virus, caused by Sadwavirus rubi, is a significant viral pathogen affecting various berry crops. This virus causes systemic infection, interfering with plant development and leading to severe yield losses in infected raspberry and blackberry plantations.

The virus has a wide host range, primarily infecting species within the Rubus genus. Beyond berries, it can infect several weeds and ornamental plants, which act as reservoirs and maintain the virus in the environment between growing seasons.

Symptoms of the infection typically appear on leaves during early spring, manifesting as chlorotic rings, spots, or mosaic patterns. Over time, affected plants exhibit stunted growth, leaf deformation, and reduced fruit set. In chronic cases, the plant vigor declines significantly, rendering the crop economically non-viable.

Transmission occurs primarily through soil-borne nematodes belonging to the Longidorus and Xiphinema genera. These vectors acquire the virus while feeding on infected roots and transmit it to healthy plants. Additionally, the virus is spread through contaminated propagation material, such as cuttings or suckers taken from infected mother plants.

Management of Sadwavirus rubi is focused exclusively on prevention, as there are no curative measures for systemic viral infections in field conditions:

• Utilize certified virus-tested propagation material for new plantings.
• Implement strict nematode control programs prior to establishing a new field.
• Rogue out and destroy infected plants promptly to prevent further spread.
• Maintain weed-free environments to remove secondary host plants.
• Sanitize all pruning and cultivation equipment to avoid mechanical transfer.