Transmission attributes and resistance to rose rosette virus

Rosette caused by rose rosette virus (RRV) is a devastating disease of rose in the United States. The virus was discovered in 2011 and Koch's postulates completed in 2015. Because of these recent discoveries, assumptions about the disease including movement, transmission and resistance are based on visual observations of material that may or may have not been infected by the virus. This study addresses several aspects of virus and disease dynamics. Twenty rose genotypes were screened for mite and/or virus resistance. Phyllocoptes fructiphilus (Keifer), the only known vector of RRV, was able to establish, lay eggs and develop nymphs and adults in all rose genotypes. ‘Stormy Weather’ shows resistance to the virus as assessed in both mite and cleft-grafting transmission experiments. Mites showed a long acquisition/latent period but a rapid inoculation time for RRV. Knowledge of resistance as well as transmission attributes will assist in better management of vector and disease. The identified resistant genotype would be used in areas with high disease pressure to minimize spread, for identification of the mechanisms behind resistance or as breeding parent to incorporate virus resistance to new cultivars. The short inoculation access period suggests that chemical control for this vector may be challenging to undertake. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.