Biological characterization of Citrus tristeza virus monophyletic isolates with respect to p25 gene

Citrus tristeza virus (CTV) is the most destructive viral pathogen of citrus and displays a high level of genetic and phenotypic diversity. In this study the biological characterization of monophyletic CTV-isolates based on p25 gene (Gp 1, Gp 2, Gp 3a, Gp 4, Gp 5, Gp M) was analyzed for the first time on the set of standard indicator plants and unde r the same environmental conditions, in order to compare the phenotypic characteristics of p25 genomic variants. The results showed that tested CTV-isolates varied in their ability to induced symptoms as well as in severity of symptoms e.g. pathogenicity.

► Monophyletic CTV isolates based on a p25 variability were biologically evaluated.
► Standard set of indicators were used and in addition, Satsuma mandarin plants.
► CTV isolates varied markedly in their ability to induce specific symptoms.
► CTV isolates varied markedly in the induced symptom severity.
► Satsuma mandarin revealed its higher sensitivity to the CTV than expected.