Artichoke latent virus (Tombusvirus cynarae)

Artichoke latent virus, scientifically known as Tombusvirus cynarae, is a significant viral pathogen affecting various species within the Asteraceae family, most notably the globe artichoke. This virus belongs to the Tombusvirus genus and is known for its stability in the environment and its ability to cause severe economic losses in vegetable production.

The primary host for this pathogen is the artichoke (Cynara cardunculus). The virus infects the plant systemically, colonizing tissues and interfering with vital physiological functions, which often leads to poor plant vigor and stunted development in commercial artichoke plantations.

Symptoms typically manifest as leaf mottling, mosaic patterns, and yellow chlorotic spots. In advanced stages of infection, leaves may become distorted or necrotic. The quality of the artichoke flower heads (hearts) is severely degraded, showing reduced size and structural malformations that render the harvest commercially unmarketable.

Transmission of Tombusvirus cynarae is primarily mechanical, occurring through routine agricultural practices such as pruning, harvesting, or vegetative propagation using contaminated tools. Additionally, the virus can persist in soil and irrigation water, facilitating transmission between successive crops in fields where the pathogen has been established.

Control strategies for this viral disease must be focused on strict preventive measures, as there are no chemical therapeutic treatments for plant viruses. Key management practices include:

• Sourcing certified virus-free planting material for new fields.
• Disinfecting harvesting tools and equipment between rows or plants.
• Immediate removal and destruction of infected symptomatic plants.
• Implementing rigorous sanitation protocols in the field to minimize mechanical spread.