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The article develops an in vitro transcription system based on prokaryotically expressed little cherry virus 1 (LChV-1) RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp). Topics discussed include replication of LChV-1, expression and purification of RdRp, and amplification of the coding sequence of RdRp. It also analyzes the RNA polymerase activity and template specificity of MBP-LChV/RdRp.

There are different reasons like pests, weeds, and diseases which are responsible for the loss of crop production. Identification and detection of different plant diseases is a difficult task in a large crop field and it also requires an expert manpower. In this paper, the proposed method uses adaptive intensity based thresholding for automatic segmentation of powdery mildew disease which makes this method invariant to image quality and noise. After the segmentation of powdery mildew disease from leaf images, the affected area is quantified which makes this method efficient for grading the level of disease infection. The proposed method is tested on the comprehensive dataset of leaf images of cherry crops, which achieved good accuracy of 99%. The experimental results indicate that proposed method for segmentation of powdery mildew disease affected area from leaf image of cherry crops is convincing and computationally cheap. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationships between soluble solids content (SSC) and pH cherry fruit of different maturity stages has been investigated using near-infrared (NIR) hyperspectral imaging technology. Using 550 fruit, 11 hyperspectral images in the 874–1734 nm region were captured and compared with SSC and pH measured by standard methods. Two types of models based on full bands, namely principal components regression model and partial least squares regression model, showed similar predictive ability. To reduce the modeling complexity based on full bands, a genetic algorithm (GA) and a successive projections algorithm were employed to select feature bands; both algorithms were tested by multiple linear regression (MLR). By comparing the results of different modeling methods, GA-MLR was selected as the final modeling method with a ratio of standard deviation of prediction set to standard deviation of prediction error of 2.7 for SSC and 2.4 for pH. SSC and pH distribution maps were generated by inputting the feature bands of each pixel into GA-MLR models. Classification of fruit maturity stages was studied, and a linear discrimination analysis method produced a correct classification ratio of 96.4%. We conclude that it is feasible to detect the quality of cherry fruit by NIR hyperspectral imaging technology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study results from observations in cherry gardens in Elazığ (Turkey: Eastern Anatolia) during 2015 and 2016. In previous studies Omaloplia labrata (Burmeister, 1855) was found feeding on leaf epidermis of leaves starting from the uppermost and youngest shoots of the growth cone, causing significant damage. This pest damages trees from the first week of June to early July, and may cause significant damage if control measures are not taken. This study is the first record of this species on cherry and harming cherry trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cherry leaf spot (CLS), caused by Blumeriella jaapii, is a serious fungal disease of sour cherry (Prunus cerasus). Cultivar Montmorency, the major cultivar grown in the United States, is highly susceptible to CLS. As many as 10 fungicide sprays can be required each growing season to combat this disease; therefore, developing CLS‐resistant cultivars is a top breeding priority. Germplasm previously reported to be resistant or tolerant to CLS was acquired and incorporated into the sour cherry breeding programme at Michigan State University (MSU) and included three cherry species: sour cherry, sweet cherry (P. avium), and the wild species P. canescens. This study aimed to: (i) compare the CLS disease progression profile of the susceptible cultivar Montmorency with those of the resistant and tolerant germplasm; and (ii) gain an understanding of the inheritance of these resistance and tolerance traits by evaluating the host response of progeny individuals belonging to families derived from this germplasm. Significant differences were observed between the susceptible Montmorency and the tolerant and resistant accessions in their response to CLS and its progression during the growing season. Evaluation of the CLS host responses of progeny individuals derived from this germplasm supported a dominant two‐gene model for P. canescens‐derived resistance and a recessive gene model for sweet cherry‐derived tolerance. These insights into disease progression and trait inheritance improve the efficiency and potential success of breeding sour cherry cultivars with durable resistance to CLS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytoplasmas are a diverse group of insect-transmitted, cell wall-less bacteria that colonize plant phloem sieve elements and cause numerous diseases in economically important crops. Living a trans-kingdom parasitic life, phytoplasmas possess dynamic genomes and evolve rapidly toward formation of distinct ecological lineages in their adaptation to specific ecological niches. In an effort aimed at identification of the etiological agent responsible for a repeatedly-occurring sweet cherry virescence (SCV) disease in China, we found that the SCV disease was consistently associated with infection by a phytoplasma belonging to subgroup B of the elm yellows phytoplasma group (16SrV-B). Further analysis of genetic loci that encode important phytoplasma cellular components, including an array of ribosomal proteins and preprotein translocase subunit SecY, revealed that the SCV phytoplasma was essentially indistinguishable from the subgroup 16SrV-B phytoplasma strains responsible for jujube witches’-broom (JWB) disease and diseases of many other plants. Evidence gathered in the present study indicated that SCV-JWB phytoplasma strains formed a highly homogenous ecological lineage. The study also revealed that a polyphagous leafhopper, Táoyīdiǎnyèchán (桃一点叶蝉 in Chinese and often being cited as Erythroneura sudra ), was able to carry the SCV phytoplasma, emphasizing a need to investigate whether this erythroneurine leafhopper plays a role in spreading the SCV phytoplasma among sweet cherry plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the view of sustainable management of Rhagoletis cerasi (L.) (Diptera, Tephritidae), a key pest of cherry orchards in Europe, we tested the efficacy of five blends containing male produced volatiles that were used as lures on yellow sticky traps, during a two year field study. Results show a superior efficacy of one of the blends (RC1 = 2-hexanone: 3-heptanone: nonanal), which captured three times more individuals than control in both years. Good results were also obtained by RC2 (beta-phellandrene: geranyl acetate: (+)-limonene) with an average number of catches which was half that of RC1 in both years. Our findings showed that one of the tested blends, which possibly represents the male sexual pheromone, has a promising potential for practical applications of synthetic lures in monitoring, mass-trapping or attract and kill strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European cherry fruit fly, Rhagoletis cerasi is a univoltine, oligophagous pest of cultivated sweet cherries. The pest is closely associated with the canopy of its host tree, and its on-farm behaviour and mobility are determined by the crop structure and spatial arrangement of the farm. However, in spite of its relevance to integrated pest management, little is known about the within-canopy behaviour of R. cerasi, or the role of host and non-host canopy traits in local pest translocations. This paper reports the results of our exploratory studies, which reveal the modulating role of female age on various aspects of R. cerasi on-farm behaviour, such as diurnal and lifetime patterns of canopy utilisation and within-canopy activity, the propensity to undertake local explorative errands and the response to volatiles emanating from host and non-host canopies. The potential implications of our findings on the development of site-optimised IPM and/or pest-resilient agro-landscapes were also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the absence of symptoms, next generation sequencing (NGS) of total RNAs from a wild cherry tree revealed a multiple virus infection. Besides prune dwarf virus (PDV) and little cherry virus 2 (LChV-2) the analysis revealed the presence of two genetically divergent cherry virus A (CVA) variants. Their complete genomes could be reconstituted, differing by 14% at the nucleotide level. The presence of these CVA variants in the original cherry tree was confirmed during three consecutive growing seasons by variant-specific RTPCR. The development of a polyvalent RT-PCR assay targeting the 3' part of the CVA genome allowed the identification of the virus in several other cultivated, wild or ornamental cherries in Slovakia, and the analysis of CVA genomic variability in the amplified region. This has allowed regrouping of known CVA isolates into six major phylogenetic groups, some of which are only recently reported, further extending the known diversity of this virus. In addition, evidence was obtained supporting the recombinant nature of two Slovak isolates and for the presence of "non-cherry" group isolates of CVA in several cherry host plants. Further investigation of the intra-tree CVA variability in five unrelated cherry trees revealed a homogenous lineage in two trees (average nucleotide diversity 0.2-0.5%), while the CVA population in the other trees was composed of variants belonging to three to four different evolutionary lineages (average diversity 7.4-8.8%). The frequent presence of highly divergent molecular variants within the CVA population in single trees further highlights the complex and heterogeneous nature of viral populations infecting perennial hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phenacoccus aceris (Signoret, 1875), the apple mealybug, is a vector of little cherry virus 2 (LChV2), a causal pathogen of little cherry disease. Sweet cherry (Prunus avium Linnaeus) (Rosaceae) trees infected with LChV2 produce cherries of small size, poor color, and poor flavor, making the fruit unmarketable. Little cherry disease was first observed in British Columbia, Canada in 1933, where it had a dramatic impact on sweet cherry production, and was recently detected in Washington, U.S.A. cherry orchards. In 2014-2016, a natural infestation of P. aceris was monitored in an apple orchard located in Washington State University's Sunrise Orchard near Rock Island, Washington (47°18'45.14"N 120°04'08.31"W). Heavy parasitism was observed on overwintering nymphs and ovipositing female P. aceris, followed by a reduction in P. aceris crawlers. The emerged wasps were identified as the encyrtid Anagyrus schoenherri (Westwood, 1837). This is the first report of A. schoenherri parasitizing P. aceris in a Washington apple orchard, which represents an extension of the geographic distribution of A. schoenherri to the Nearctic Region. Reduction in P. aceris densities, one of the key vectors of LChV2, is potentially important for the sweet cherry industry in the Pacific Northwest. Historically, declining P. aceris populations in British Columbia were attributed to the establishment of a platygastrid parasitoid Allotropa utilis Muesebeck, 1939, suggesting that biological control could play a major role. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Production of inoculum of Colletotrichum acutatum from both previously infected and overwintered tissue, as well as newly developed plant tissue of sour cherry (Prunus cerasus), was studied in southern Norway. Plant parts were sampled from commercial, private, or research orchards, and incubated for 2 to 14 days (time depended on tissue type) in saturated air at 20°C. In early spring, abundant sporulation was found on scales of overwintered buds and shoots. A mean of 35% infected buds in four cultivars was observed, with a maximum of 72% of the buds infected in one of the samples. Over 3 years, the seasonal production of overwintered fruit and peduncles of cv. Fanal infected the previous year was investigated. In all three years, the infected plant material was placed in the trees throughout the winter and the following growing season; in two of the years, fruit and peduncles were also placed on the ground in the autumn or the following spring. Old fruit and peduncles formed conidia throughout the season, with a peak in May and June. Spore numbers declined over the season, but the decline was more rapid for plant material on the ground than in the trees. On average over 2 years, 68.7, 24.0, or 7.3% of the inoculum came from fruit placed in the trees, placed on the ground in spring, or placed on the ground the preceding autumn, respectively. The number of fruit and peduncles attached to the trees in a planting of cv. Hardangerkirsebær was followed from February to July one year, and although there was a decline over time, fruit and/or their peduncles were still attached in substantial numbers in July, thus illustrating their potential as sources of inoculum. In observations over 2 years in a heavily infected orchard of cv. Stevnsbær, 75 and 47% of flowers and newly emerged fruit, respectively, were infected. Artificially inoculated flowers and fruit produced conidia until harvest, with a peak in mid-July. It may be concluded that previously infected and overwintered, as well as newly emerged tissue of sour cherry, may serve as sources of inoculum of C. acutatum throughout the growing season. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the phytosanitary status of sour and duke cherry genetic resources in the Iberian Peninsula, and the incidence and leaf symptoms induced by the Prunus necrotic ringspot virus (PNRSV), Prune dwarf virus (PDV) and Apple chlorotic leaf spot virus (ACLSV). Young leaf samples were taken from 204 sour and duke cherry trees belonging to ten cultivars, and were assayed by DAS-ELISA. Samples positive for any of the three viruses were also tested by RT-PCR. To associate the leaf symptoms with virus presence, 50 mature leaves from each infected tree were visually inspected during the summer. The ELISA and RT-PCR results indicated that 63% of the cherry trees were infected by at least one of these viruses. PNRSV occurred in all cultivars sampled and presented the highest infection rate (46%), followed by PDV β1%) and ACLSV (6%). Many trees, (60 to 100%), were asymptomatic while harbouring single and mixed virus infections. The leaf symptoms associated with the viruses included chlorotic and dark brown necrotic ringspots on secondary veins and interveinal regions, for PNRSV, generalized chlorosis around the midveins, for PDV, chlorotic and reddish necrotic ringspots, for ACLSV, and generalized interveinal chlorosis, for mixed PNRSV and PDVinfections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The complete genomic sequence of a new virus from cherry trees was determined. Its genome is 5857 nt long and resembles that of members of the genus Luteovirus in its genomic organization and nucleotide sequence. Based on the species demarcation criteria for luteoviruses, the virus represents a new luteovirus species. Furthermore, a 47-nt-long inverted repeat was found at the 3' end of its genome. The virus has been provisionally named cherry-associated luteovirus (ChALV) and is the fourth member of the family Luteoviridae reported to naturally infect woody plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Real-time quantitative RT-PCR (RT-qPCR) was developed for the detection of Cherry rasp leaf virus (CRLV), Cherry green ring mottle virus (CGRMV), Cherry necrotic rusty mottle virus (CNRMV), Cherry virus A (CVA) and Apple chlorotic leaf spot virus (ACLSV) in stone fruits, including apricot, cherry, peach, plum and almond. The RT-qPCR assays were designed after aligning nucleotide sequences derived from the most conserved regions of the coat protein gene of geographically diverse isolates and isolates for which sequence information is available in Gen- Bank. RT-qPCR assays were validated and compared to conventional RT-PCR using 221 isolates. Our data showed that more isolates were detected by RT-qPCR than by RTPCR; 0.9%, 6.3%, 1.29%, 5% and 8.14% more for CRLV, CGRMV, CNRMV, CVA and ACLSV, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Postharvest treatments with extracts from two wild edible plants ( Orobanche crenata and Sanguisorba minor ), water solutions of two inorganic salts (calcium chloride, CaCl 2 , and sodium bicarbonate, NaHCO 3 ), and their combination (i.e., extracts with added CaCl 2 or NaHCO 3 ), were assayed to control sweet cherry postharvest diseases. Three extract concentrations for each plant were assayed, corresponding to 0.170, 0.340, and 0.510 g dry matter/mL and to 0.125, 0.250, and 0.500 g dry matter/mL for S. minor and O. crenata , respectively. At the lowest and the highest concentrations tested, S. minor extract was able to inhibit rot development in stored fruit by 79 and 89%, respectively, with an efficacy comparable to that of CaCl 2 and NaHCO 3 ; for O. crenata extract such inhibition ranged between 64 and 76%, respectively. A dose effect was observed only for O. crenata . Moreover, the level of control was not improved by the combined application of plant extracts and salts. HPLC analysis of O. crenata extract showed verbascoside as the main phenolic compound, being about 95% of total phenolics; S. minor phenolic pattern appeared to be more complex, due to the presence of caffeic acid derivatives, quercetin-3-glucoside, kaempferol-3-glucoside and other quercetin, kaempferol, and luteolin derivatives, as well as many other unidentified compounds. Residues of phenolics resulting from plant extracts in treated sweet cherries after storage were below the analytical limit of detection. The study demonstrated that S. minor and O. crenata extracts might represent an alternative organic mean for controlling sweet cherry postharvest decay. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cherry an important stone fruit crop has been found to face a serious threat due to Blumeriella leaf spot disease. Survey of cherry orchards in Srinagar, Ganderbal and Baramulla districts revealed prevalence of the disease to varying extent. The disease incidence and intensity ranged from 13.00 to 52.50 per cent and 5.78 to 30.48 per cent, respectively. Maximum disease incidence of 41.02 per cent and intensity of 18.62 per cent was recorded in Ganderbal district, while minimum disease incidence of 18.10 per cent and intensity of 8.4 per cent was recorded in Baramulla district. The disease first appeared as small, circular to irregular, purple red speck on upper leaf surface. Periodical changes in colour, shape and size of the spots coupled with formation of irregular necrotic patches led to pre-mature defoliation. The fungus isolated on Potato Dextrose Agar medium produced compact and circular greyish white fungal colonies composed of hyaline, thick walled, septate and branched mycelium. Acervuli produced after 20 days of incubation at 20±1°C were dark brown to black, circular, discoid and measured 260.50 μm in diameter. Conidia (39.01 × 2.89 μm) were hyaline, bicelled, elongated, curved or flexous with tapered apex and rounded base. The pathogenic nature of the fungus was established on potted cherry saplings of cv. Bigarreau napoleon (Double). Based on morphological characters, pathogenicity test and comparision with the authentic description, the pathogen causing the disease was identified as Cylindrosporium padi (Lib.) P. Karst. Ex Sacc. the anamorph of Blumeriella jaapii (Rehm) Arx. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND Drosophila suzukii is a major pest of cherry in the western United States. We evaluated whether the addition of sugary baits could improve the efficacy of two classes of insecticides not considered to be sufficiently effective for this pest, diamides and spinosyns, in laboratory and field trials in cherry. RESULTS Adding cane sugar alone or in combination with the yeasts Saccharomyces cerevisiae or Aureobasidium pullulans significantly improved insecticide efficacy. However, the significance of adding yeasts to the sugar plus insecticide on fly mortality varied with respect to both the insecticide and yeast species. The addition of S. cerevisiae to sugar also did not significantly reduce egg densities in fruit compared with sugar alone. The addition of a yeast plus sugar significantly reduced egg densities in three field trials with cyantraniliprole and in two out of three trials with spinosad. CONCLUSION The addition of cane sugar with or without yeast can improve the effectiveness of diamide and spinosyn insecticides for D. suzukii in cherry. Inclusion of these two insecticides in D. suzukii management programs may alleviate the strong selection pressure currently being imposed on a few mode-of-action insecticide classes used by growers to maintain fly suppression over long continuous harvest periods of mixed cultivars. Published 2015. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brown rot caused by fungi belonging to the genus Monilinia is one of the major limiting factors of sour and sweet cherry production. Up to now, three species, M. fructigena, M. laxa and M. fructicola, have been identified as causal agents of brown rot on cherries worldwide. From 2010 to 2013, during the monitoring of cherry orchards in different areas of Poland, a fourth species, M. polystroma, was isolated from brown rot symptoms on sour and sweet cherry fruits. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first time M. polystroma has been reported as the causal agent of brown rot on cherries. The genetic diversity of M. polystroma isolates from cherries and other hosts was analysed using PCR MP, ISSR and RAPD techniques and showed its clear distinctness from other Monilinia spp. tested. The cluster analysis of fingerprinting data revealed a high similarity of M. polystroma isolates from Poland and their close relationship with the reference strain from Japan, indicating that this species is a recently introduced pathogen. The highest genetic distance between the examined isolates and the highest number of different genotypes was observed in an ISSR assay. Detailed genetic diversity characteristics revealed that M. polystroma isolates from cherries did not create a distinct group but were intermingled with M. polystroma isolates from other hosts. The results of the pathogenicity test conducted on different fruit species indicated a lack of host specificity for M. polystroma isolates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of plant-derived products in postharvest disease management may be a valid alternative to conventional chemical treatments. In this study, the antifungal activity of crude foliar extracts of a wild Capsicum annuum accession against Alternaria alternata was assessed. Pepper extracts affected mycelial growth and suppressed conidia germination in a dose-dependent manner. Moreover, they significantly reduced soft rot disease severity on artificially infected ripe cherry tomatoes. Extracts were characterized for their total phenolic content and antioxidant activity. UPLC–DAD analysis was also performed to obtain phenolic profiles of extracts and quantify the individual known components, including gallic acid, chlorogenic acid, catechin, caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid and ferulic acid. The putative role of this class of molecules in conferring antifungal activity to the extracts is discussed. The results indicate that extracts rich in natural phenolic compounds could be promising for sustainable applications in crop protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two generalist pupal drosophilid parasitoids, Pachycrepoideus vindemiae (Rondani) (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae) and Trichopria drosophilae Perkins (Hymenoptera: Diapriidae), are sympatric and among only a few parasitoid species attacking the invasive Drosophila suzukii Matsumura (Diptera: Drosophilidae) in many regions of the world. In this study, we evaluated their foraging efficiency when attacking D. suzukii infesting cherry fruit in a laboratory cage experiment; and we examined their potential interspecific interactions, including outcomes of intrinsic competition, host discrimination, and the impact of their interaction on pest control. We show that both parasitoids readily parasitized D. suzukii pupae located inside fruit or buried in soil. However, T. drosophilae was more efficient than P. vindemiae and that parasitism by either parasitoid species was higher in the fruit than in the soil. Generally, the parasitoid species that oviposited first in the host out-competed the later parasitoid in multi-parasitized hosts, we assume, through physiological suppression. Both parasitoids discriminated against hosts parasitized previously by the other species. In an additive-series design experiment with single ( D. suzukii ) or two ( D. suzukii and Drosophila melanogaster Meigen) host species, T. drosophilae performed similarly regardless of the presence of a competitor, while P. vindemiae achieved a higher parasitism when alone. The observed parasitism when the two parasitoid species were present together was always lower than the expected one, assuming each species acted independently. This indicates a negative effect by P. vindemiae on interspecific competition on host suppression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A pomegranate peel extract (PGE) was evaluated as a natural antifungal preparation for the control of postharvest rots. In vitro trials revealed a strong fungicidal activity against germination of conidia of Botrytis cinerea , Penicillium digitatum and Penicillium expansum . Almost complete inhibition of all fungal spore germination was achieved after 20 h of incubation with PGE. PGE was very effective in inhibiting decay following artificial inoculations of lemons by P. digitatum and Penicillium italicum , grapefruits by P. italicum and apples by P. expansum . At concentrations of 1.2 and 12 g/l complete inhibition of infection was achieved in the majority of host pathogen combinations. Furthermore, it was also effective in reducing natural rots under semi-commercial conditions on both sweet cherries and lemons: on cherries Monilinia laxa and B. cinerea rots were reduced by 61.0% ( cv . Bigarreau Moreau) and 95.6% ( cv . Giorgia), respectively, and on lemons 87.8% reduction of total rot was achieved. PGE treatment showed residual effect as it was effective in inhibiting infections made at 6, 12, and 24 h after the application of the extract in fruit wounds. Additionally, PGE exhibited curative activity and reduced the incidence of rots when it was applied 6 and 24 h after inoculation. Considering that PGE was extracted and stabilized using safe chemicals (food grade ethanol and citric acid) and that it did not have any apparent phytotoxic effect on treated fruit, PGE proved to be effectively eco-friendly and safe control mean for postharvest rots of fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Little cherry virus 1 (LChV-1), associated with little cherry disease (LCD), has a significant impact on fruit quality of infected sweet cherry trees. We report the full genome sequence of an isolate of LChV-1 from Taian, China (LChV-1-TA), detected by small-RNA deep sequencing and amplified by overlapping RT-PCR. The LChV-1-TA genome was 16,932 nt in length and contained nine open reading frames (ORFs), with sequence identity at the overall genome level of 76 %, 76 %, and 78 % to LChV-1 isolates Y10237 (UW2 isolate), EU715989 (ITMAR isolate) and JX669615 (V2356 isolate), respectively. Based on the phylogenetic analysis of HSP70h amino acid sequences of Closteroviridae family members, LChV-1-TA was grouped into a well-supported cluster with the members of the genus Velarivirus and was also closely related to other LChV-1 isolates. This is the first report of the complete nucleotide sequence of LChV-1 infecting sweet cherry in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Western cherry fruit fly, Rhagoletis indifferens Curran (Diptera: Tephritidae), is a quarantine pest of sweet cherry (Prunus avium (L.) L.) that is managed using insecticides, including spinosad, an organic compound that can be applied in low spray volumes. Identifying factors that can increase the efficacy of spinosad can be useful for improving fly control. Here, the major objective was to determine if temperature mediates kill and oviposition of R. indifferens in the presence of low spinosad coverage in the laboratory. Experiments were conducted by placing flies in cages with cherries and with a Petri dish containing 3-12 small spots of dry spinosad at 18.3, 23.9, and 29.4°C. Effects of spinosad rates were also determined. More flies were killed at 23.9 and 29.4°C than at 18.3°C by 1-7 d post exposure. More flies were killed at 29.4 than 23.9°C by 1 d post exposure. However, flies laid more eggs at these temperatures than at 18.3°C. Higher spinosad rates increased kill and decreased oviposition, but even within the highest rate, oviposition was greater at 29.4 than 18.3°C. More flies walked over 5- min observation periods at 29.4 and 23.9°C than 18.3°C, suggesting higher temperatures up to 29.4°C increase kill by increasing fly contact with spinosad as well as increase oviposition rate. Results suggest that spinosad rates in sprays used against R. indifferens should be greater at higher than lower ambient temperatures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A specific survey for the detection of Drosophila suzukii Matsmura 1931 (Diptera, Drosophilidae) in Dalmatia region of the Republic of Croatia during 2013, confirmed that the pest is present and widespread. Adults were detected in traps suspended in Prunus cerasus L. (sour cherry), Prunus persica L. (peach), Ficus carica L. (fig) and Morus alba L. (mulberry) orchards and individual trees, during the fruit maturation period, in 16 (of the 51 locations) where traps were placed in Dubrovačko-neretvanska, Splitsko-dalmatinska, Šibensko-kninska and Zadarska counties. This confirmed the rapid spread of D. suzukii in Croatia and this pest is a great concern for areas that are not yet infested that have favourable conditions for the pests' development. The results of the survey highlight the importance of the development and implementation of long-term sustainable control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organophosphate (OP) poisoning caused by pesticide-contaminated food is seldom reported. Case report: We report an incident of OP poisoning, in an 18 year old female. She had consumed a large amount of unwashed cherries from the garden, after a religious fast whole day. Next morning she was found unconscious, soiled in stools and urine and had frothing at mouth and nostrils. Patient had developed "Hypersecretory syndrome" with bilateral pin point pupils. She was in shock with GCS of E1V1M5 (7/15). She had type 1 respiratory failure (sO2=50%), requiring intubation. After aggressive supportive management and atropine patient recovered from shock and was able to maintain oxygen saturation on room air. Later, patient developed "Intermediate syndrome" in the form of peripheral neuropathy and areflexia. She also developed Atropine psychosis, during treatment. On further investigations it was found that Dichlorvos (Nuvan) was sprayed on cherries few days back and her plasma cholinesterase levels were < 1 micro U/L (Normal range - 3.93 - 7.80 řU/L). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is demonstrated that closely related viruses within the family Betaflexiviridae are associated with a number of diseases that affect sweet cherry (Prunus avium) and other Prunus spp. Cherry rusty mottle- associated virus (CRMaV) is correlated with the appearance of cherry rusty mottle disease (CRMD), and Cherry twisted leaf-associated virus (CTLaV) is linked to cherry twisted leaf disease (CTLD) and apricot ringpox disease (ARPD). Comprehensive analysis of previously reported full genomic sequences plus those determined in this study representing isolates of CTLaV, CRMaV, Cherry green ring mottle virus, and Cherry necrotic rusty mottle virus revealed segregation of sequences into four clades corresponding to distinct virus species. High-throughput sequencing of RNA from representative source trees for CRMD, CTLD, and ARPD did not reveal additional unique virus sequences that might be associated with these diseases, thereby further substantiating the association of CRMaV and CTLaV with CRMD and CTLD or ARPD, respectively. Based on comparison of the nucleotide and amino acid sequence identity values, phylogenetic relationships with other triple-gene block- coding viruses within the family Betaflexiviridae, genome organization, and natural host range, a new genus (Robigovirus) is suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) (Diptera: Drosophilidae) is a pest of small fruits and cherries, and has also been noted to infest a variety of wild, ornamental, and uncultivated hosts. Identifying alternative hosts is critical for pest management. Research objectives were to: 1) survey fruits in the field for natural infestation of D. suzukii, 2) determine the susceptibility of fruits in laboratory no-choice studies, and 3) evaluate short-range preference between simultaneously ripe alternative hosts and cultivated fruits in laboratory choice studies. Field surveys identified new hosts or confirmed previously reported hosts including: Berberis aquifolium Pursh, Oregon grape; Cornus spp., dogwood; Cotoneaster lacteus W.W. Smith, milkflower cotoneaster; Elaeagnus umbellata Thunberg, Autumn olive; Frangula purshiana (de Candolle) A. Gray, cascara buckthorn; Lindera benzoin (L.) Blume, spicebush; Lonicera caerulea L., blue honeysuckle; Morus sp., mulberry; Phytolacca americana L., pokeweed; Prunus avium (L.) L., wild cherry; Prunus laurocerasus L., cherry laurel; Prunus lusitanica L., Portuguese laurel; Rubus armeniacus Focke, Himalaya blackberry; Rubus spectabilis Pursh, salmonberry; Sambucus nigra L., black elderberry; Sarcococca confusa Sealy, sweet box; Solanum dulcamara L., bittersweet nightshade; and Symphoricarpos albus (L.) S.F. Blake, snowberry. High fruit infestations were observed in S. confusa during April–May and Lonicera spp. in June before most commercial fruits ripen. From both field and laboratory studies, there was no evidence of susceptibility during the estimated ripe period Crataegus L. ‘Autumn Glory,’ hawthorn; Ilex crenata Thunberg, Japanese holly; Nandina domestica Thunberg, sacred bamboo; Rhaphiolepis umbellata (Thunberg) Makino, yeddo hawthorne; Rosa acicularis Lindley, prickly rose; Skimmia japonica Thunberg, Japanese skimmia; and Viburnum davidii Franchet, David’s viburnum. Lastly, laboratory choice tests identified that several fall-ripening alternative hosts were more susceptible than ‘Pinot noir’ or ‘Pinot gris’ wine grapes. By understanding host use, growers can identify high-risk areas where coordinated action may reduce infestation of D. suzukii in crops. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Leaves were collected from a total of 62 trees displaying virus-like disease symptoms such as rugose mosaic in leaf, irregular shaped leaf blades or small leaf blades in a survey of sweet cherry (Prunus avium L. cv Red Lamp) in Shandong Province, the largest cherry production area in China. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis indicated that Prunus necrotic ringspot virus (PNRSV), Prune dwarf virus (PDV), Little cherry virus- 2 (LChV-2), Cherry virus A (CVA) and Cherry green ring mottle virus (CGRMV) were present and that most of the samples (70%) were infected by at least two viruses. A case study in this survey of two selected trees revealed that a mixed infection with these five viruses simultaneously caused two types of field symptoms: late-maturity in fruits or fruit blast. Real-time quantitative RT-PCR analysis revealed that the relative proportion of the virus titers was distinct in the two sampled trees. The PNRSV titer was significantly higher than the four other viruses in the trees that exhibited fruit blast. Phylogenetic analysis of the PNRSV coat protein (CP) gene showed that the isolates HSY-4-1 and X-3, obtained from the two sampled trees separately, were classified into different subgroups of Group I isolates, which is characterized by a six-nucleotide insertion. A non-synonymous substitution was identified in the six-nucleotide insertion in the PNRSV CP gene in one of the two isolates. This is the first detailed study of the incidence of multiple sweet cherry viruses in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Drosophila suzukii is a pest of soft fruit such as cherry, strawberry or blueberry and recently colonized North America and Europe from Asia. In this study, we assessed the utility of Japanese Asobara species as agents for the biological control of this pest species by examining their host use in nature and their capacity to parasitize this pest species. From Japan, eight Asobara species including putative three undescribed species were found; Asobara japonica was recorded from all over Japan, Asobara tabida from high altitude areas in central and northern Japan, Asobara rossica and Asobara rufescens from central to northern Japan, three undescribed species from central to western or southern Japan and Asobara pleuralis from a subtropical island of Japan. Among them, an undescribed species Asobara sp. TK1 may be useful as an agent for the biological control because it was recorded only from D. suzukii. All of the remaining seven species were generalists mainly using drosophilid species associated with fermenting fruits, and four of them had no or very low abilities to parasitize D. suzukii, indicating that these seven species are not or less appropriate as agents for biological control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rhagoletis cerasi L. is the main pest of sweet cherry and sour cherry orchards , whose attack may decrease the quality of fruits in a high percentage. The experiment took place in two locations from Cluj-Napoca city. During 2 experimental years we observed the population dynamics of European cherry fruit fly. In the year 2013 adults emergence took place on May 25. The maximum level of population was reached in June 10 in untreated orchard, respectively on the 24th of June in the case of chemically treated orchard. In 2014 the first captures were recorded on May 21 and the peak flight was achieved in untreated orchard on June 3 and June 17 in the orchard were chemical treatments where applied. The total flight period of adults ranged on an interval of 36-51 days in the year 2013 and 48-51 days in 2014. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a 2021 report on the infection of sweet cherry trees (Prutus avium) in Ontario by the Cherry virus A (CVA). It states that CVA is often found in mixed infections with other viruses, and that it occurs it many Prunus fruit-producing countries and regions like China and the west coast areas of Canada and the U.S. Also noted is the first occurrence of CVA infection in Ontario in the report.

Prunus necrotic ringspot virus (PNRSV) has seriously reduced the yield of Prunus species worldwide. In this study, a highly efficient and specific two-step reverse transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP) was developed to detect PNRSV. Total RNA was extracted from sweet cherry leaf samples using a commercial kit based on a magnetic nanoparticle technique. Transcripts were used as the templates for the assay. The results of this assay can be detected using agarose gel electrophoresis or by assessing in-tube fluorescence after adding SYBR Green I. The assay is highly specific for PNRSV, and it is more sensitive than reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Restriction enzyme digestion verified further the reliability of this RT-LAMP assay. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the application of RT-LAMP to PNRSV detection in Prunus species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cherry leaf spot (CLS), caused by the fungal pathogen Blumeriella jaapii (Rehm) Arx (telomorph Phloeosporella padi [Lib.] Arx), is a major disease in all humid cherry-growing regions worldwide causing leaf yellowing and defoliation. The diploid Prunus species, P. canescens, had previously been identified as a source of CLS resistance. Therefore, the objective of this study was to identify quantitative trait loci (QTL) for CLS resistance derived from P. canescens in both diploid sweet cherry ( P. avium) and tetraploid sour cherry ( P. cerasus). Because of the simpler genetics of diploid cherry, the initial investigation was done with P. canescens-derived materials from crosses with sweet cherry, followed by validation using P. canescens-derived plant materials from sour cherry. A major QTL controlling P. canescens-derived CLS resistance, named CLSR_G4, was identified on linkage group 4 in sweet cherry and validated in sour cherry. All CLS-resistant individuals had one P. canescens-derived allele for CLSR_G4. A second QTL may be necessary for CLS resistance as one-fifth-one-third of the progeny individuals with the P. canescens-derived allele for CLSR_G4 were susceptible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Panel on Plant Health performed a pest categorisation of Cherry leafroll virus (CLRV) for the European Union (EU) territory. CLRV is a well-defined virus species of the genus Nepovirus, for which the entire genome sequence and molecular detection assays are available. CLRV is transmitted by vegetative multiplication of infected hosts and is also seed- and pollen-transmitted (both horizontally and vertically) in many of its hosts. There is, however, evidence that interspecific transmission by the pollen-mediated mechanism is very limited. CLRV has a wide host range, which contains both woody and herbaceous hosts, many of which are largely present in natural environments. It is listed on plants of Rubus spp. for planting in Annex IIAI of Directive 2000/29/EC. CLRV is widely present in the EU but there are very few records on its regulated hosts. It is not expected to be affected by ecoclimatic conditions wherever its hosts are present and has the potential to establish in large parts of the EU territory. CLRV can spread through efficient seed- and pollen-mediated transmission mechanisms and through the movement of vegetatively propagated plants for planting of numerous hosts. However, the existence of efficient and widely adopted certification systems for some of these hosts constitutes a limitation to CLRV spread. Although the virus alone or when in mixed infection can cause significant disease in some hosts, the actual impact of CLRV is very difficult to evaluate but generally appears to be limited. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genome of a virus associated with cherry twisted leaf disease (CTLaV, isolate ZH) was sequenced and consists of 8431 nucleotides, excluding a poly(A) tail at the 3′ end. Genome analysis shows that CTLaV-ZH represents a new and distinct species and has a genome organization similar to those of unassigned viruses in the family Betaflexiviridae. The CTLaV-ZH genome has five open reading frames (ORFs), with putative ORFs within ORF2 and ORF5, identified as ORF2a and ORF5a, respectively. The AUG start codons of ORF2a and ORF5a are in contexts suitable for efficient translation, with appropriate stop codons in frame. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plum pox virus (PPV)-positive samples from one sweet (Prunus avium) and four sour cherry (P. cerasus) trees from three geographically distinct regions of Russia (Moscow, Samara and Volgograd) were analysed. The average genetic distance among the five Russian PPV-C isolates in the region spanning the 3'terminal part of the nuclear inclusion b gene (NIb) and the hypervariable 5'terminal part of the coat protein gene reached 1.6%. To widen the information on PPV-C diversity, the full-length genome sequence of an isolate (Volk143) was determined directly from the original host tissues. The analysis of the complete genome sequences showed a high identity of Volk143 and the previously characterised PPV-C isolates with only 1.4-1.8% divergence. Co-infection with the recently identified PPV-CR strain was not observed, even though the PPV-CR is known to occur in the regions of origin of the isolates studied here. The present results unambiguously confirm the natural infection of sweet and sour cherry trees by PPV-C in different Russian regions and further contribute to our understanding of the poorly known PPV-C diversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) assays were developed for the detection of the ilarviruses Prunus necrotic ringspot virus (PNRSV), Prune dwarf virus (PDV), Apple mosaic virus (ApMV), and American plum line pattern virus (APLPV), and the nepoviruses Tomato ringspot virus (ToRSV) and Cherry leafroll virus (CLRV). These viruses affect various stone fruits such as apricots, cherries, peaches, plums, and almonds. The goal of this work was to improve the RT-qPCR detection of PNRSV, PDV, and ApMV in addition to developing three new RT-qPCR assays for the detection of APLPV, ToRSV and CLRV. Primers for conventional RT-PCR as well as primers and probes for RT-qPCR assays were designed after aligning coat protein (CP) gene sequences of geographically diverse isolates with the corresponding CP gene sequences from the GenBank, targeting regions with 100% sequence identity. The efficiency of each RT-qPCR assay, as well as the intra- and inter-assay variability were determined. These conventional RT-PCR and RT-qPCR assays were validated using purified total RNAs from 221 trees from the USDA Clonal Germplasm Repository orchards. The data showed that more isolates were detected by RT-qPCR than by RT-PCR. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In neglected orchards the attack of European cherry fruit fly can affect the production by up to compromising. For framing in the regulations asked by market, it is often required that in cherry plantations to intervene with several strategies of pest control, in which frequently appears chemotherapy. To apply a reduced number of treatments we must know the biological reserve of species and its life cycle. The experiment was conducted over two years, 2013-2014, in an orchard located near Cluj-Napoca city, Romania.To study the biological cycle of this species, we followed the dynamics of climatic factors, especially the accumulation of active degrees that were needed in going through several stages of development. In order to apply the treatments, we observed flight dynamics of Rhagoletis cerasi using sticky panels (provided by Institute of Chemistry "Raluca Ripan'' Cluj-Napoca). The treatments applyed in combating of the fly consisted in two applications of products belonging to synthetic pyrethroids group. In 2013, the first adults were recorded on 25 May, when the amount of active degrees accumulated was 410, 2°C. Frequency of fruits attacked by cherries worm this year was 1%. In 2014, the adults emergence took place on May 21, which corresponded to value of 343,8° C degrees acumulated. Although the population level was still high the frequency of attacked fruits was again 1%, which was mainly due to the possibility of migration of adults at distances over 100 m. In control variant, an untreated orchard, frequency of attacked fruits in both years exceeded 30%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fly or worm cherry attack cherries and sour cherry fruit and degree of attack depends on the baking times of these species. Fruits of early varieties are practically not attacked because at the occurrence of female fruit ripening ends. Much of the eggs are deposited on fruit varieties with middle and late ripening age. The damage are produced by the larvae, which consume the pulp of the fruit around the kernel. Fruits attacked outside show deep cavities. In the years of intensive development of this pest can be attacked 50-60% of cherries and 30% of sour cherry. These fruits cannot be eaten fresh or present and cannot be used for processing. In combating this pest shall apply agrotechnical and chemical measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Temperature-related studies were conducted on Drosophila suzukii Matsumura (Diptera: Drosophilidae: Drosophilini). From 10-28°C, temperature had a significant impact on blueberries, Vaccinium corymbosum L. (Ericales: Ericaceae), and cherries, Prunus avium (L.) L. 1755 (Rosales: Rosaceae), important commercial hosts of D. suzukii. Temperature had a significant influence on D. suzukii developmental period, survival, and fecundity, with decreasing developmental periods as temperatures increased to 28°C. At 30°C, the highest temperature tested, development periods increased, indicating that above this temperature the developmental extremes for the species were approached. D. suzukii reared on blueberries had lower fecundity than reared on cherries at all temperatures where reproduction occurred. The highest net reproductive rate (Ro) and intrinsic rate of population increase (rm) were recorded on cherries at 22°C and was 195.1 and 0.22, respectively. Estimations using linear and nonlinear fit for the minimum, optimal, and maximum temperatures where development can take place were respectively, 7.2, 28.1, and 42.1°C. The rm values were minimal, optimal, and maximal at 13.4, 21.0, and 29.3°C, respectively. Our laboratory cultures of D. suzukii displayed high rates of infection for Wolbachia spp. (Rickettsiales: Rickettsiaceae), and this infection may have impacted fecundity found in this study. A temperature-dependent matrix population estimation model using fecundity and survival data were run to determine whether these data could predict D. suzukii pressure based on environmental conditions. The model was applied to compare the 2011 and 2012 crop seasons in an important cherry production region. Population estimates using the model explained different risk levels during the key cherry harvest period between these seasons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND The European cherry fruit fly, Rhagoletis cerasi, is the major insect pest of sweet and tart cherries. Its management is becoming increasingly difficult in many countries as formerly effective but broad-spectrum insecticides are removed from the market. With the objective of identifying suitable and environmentally safe alternatives, we investigated bait sprays containing two families of plant-derived insecticides: azadirachtins ( NeemAzal-T® and NeemAzal-T/S®) and pyrethrins (Spruzit Neu®). RESULTS In 12 semi-field trials conducted within cages, weekly applications of 0.0001 or 0.0005% neem in a bait formulation effectively reduced fruit infestation. However, addition of 0.000125-0.001% pyrethrins did not improve the efficacy of the neem formulations, and when used alone pyrethrins were less effective than neem alone. Two years of field trials were also conducted within orchards wherein an insecticidal barrier of treated trees excluded immigration of fertile R. cerasi from elsewhere. In blocks treated with 0.0005% neem in a bait formulation, we observed 94% (2011) or 86% (2012) reduction of fruit infestation over control blocks. CONCLUSION Bait sprays containing neem are a promising alternative for the management of R. cerasi, especially where the risk of immigration of fertilized females is low, as in isolated orchards or as part of area-wide treatments. © 2013 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Abstract: A multiplex reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (mRT-PCR) was developed and standardized for the simultaneous detection of four cherry viruses: Cherry virus A (CVA, Genus; Capillovirus), Cherry necrotic rusty mottle virus (CNRMV, unassigned species of the Betaflexiviridae), Little cherry virus 1 (LChV-1, Genus; Closterovirus) and Prunus necrotic ringspot virus (PNRSV, Genus; Ilarvirus) with nad5 as plant internal control. A reliable and quick method for total plant RNA extraction from pome and stone fruit trees was also developed. To minimize primer dimer formation, a single antisense primer for CVA and CNRMV was used. A mixture of random hexamer and oligo (dT) primer was used for cDNA synthesis, which was highly suited and economic for multiplexing. All four viruses were detected successfully by mRT-PCR in artificially created viral RNA mixture and field samples of sweet cherry. The identity of the viruses was confirmed by sequencing. The assay could detect above viruses in diluted cDNA (10−4) and RNA (10−3, except PNRSV which was detected only till ten times lesser dilution). The developed mRT-PCR will not only be useful for the detection of viruses from single or multiple infections of sweet cherry plants but also for other stone and pome fruits. The developed method will be therefore quite helpful for virus indexing, plant quarantine and certification programs. This is the first report for the simultaneous detection of four cherry viruses by mRT-PCR. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: The use of plastic rain shields is a very effective method to control fruit cracking in cherry trees. In this study, the effect of plastic rain shields on fruit cracking and fruit decay was investigated in different sweet cherry cultivars. The results showed that the percentage of fruit cracking and fruit decay was significant higher in uncovered than covered cherry trees. Fungi of the genus Monilinia were the main pathogens causing fruit decay in cherry fruits. In fruit with symptoms of cracking, fungi of the genus Alternaria predominated. Finally, the effect of plastic rain shield on the development of the disease Shot Hole (Wilsonomyces carpophilus) was examined. In most of cases, the percentage of the Shot Hole disease was higher in covered than uncovered cherry trees. Differences were found among cultivars. Generally, the use of plastic rain shields is a very effective method to control fruit cracking and fruit decay on cherry trees, but they should be removed during dry periods to reduce the risk of developing of Shot Hole. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Highlights: [•] Two detergents showed good pesticide removal ability in cherry tomatoes. [•] Removal of CHT and CHP was up to 80% and 42%, respectively, at 5gL−1 of detergent. [•] A duration of 20min was sufficient. [•] Adding 10% acetic acid or increasing washing temperature favored pesticide removal. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Apple scar skin viroid (ASSVd) is a fruit-damaging pathogen that causes significant economic losses to pome fruit trees. In the context of a survey on fruit tree viroids in Greece, ASSVd was initially detected by RTPCR in two sweet cherry trees of cv. Tragana Edessis in an apple orchard in Florina (Macedonia, Greece). This finding was confirmed by direct viroid sequencing of the amplified RT-PCR products. In order to verify this finding, we further examined four sweet cherry trees cvs Tragana Edessis and Biggareau Burlat, two sweet cherry trees of undetermined cultivar, and fifteen neighboring apple trees in the same orchard for possible infection with ASSVd. The viroid assay was done by tissue print hybridization using an ASSVd-specific DIG-labeled probe at stringent hybridization conditions and by RTPCR using two different ASSVd-specific primer pairs. ASSVd was detected in the six sweet cherry trees, including symptomatic samples, but not in any of the 15 apple trees. Purified ASSVd-positive RT-PCR products from sweet cherries were sequenced either directly or after cloning into pGEM-T or pCR II plasmid vectors. Sixteen ASSVd sequences obtained from five trees were 327-340 nucleotide long and shared 96-99% identity with ASSVd isolates from Indian apples. There was no cherry-specific nucleotide changes in the ASSVd sequences obtained. The viroid was graft transmitted successfully from cherry trees to cherry rootstocks and the newly developed rootstock leaves were ASSVd-positive by RT-PCR. To our knowledge, this is the first molecular and biological analyses of ASSVd infecting sweet cherry trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]