A survey of sap-transmissible viruses of lucerne in New Zealand

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Abstract
Three sap-transmissible viruses, Australian lucerne latent virus (ALLV), lucerne transient streak virus (LTSV), and alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV), were detected in 8.2%, 3.5%, and 2.3% respectively of samples collected from symptom-less lucerne crops. We conclude, from differences in their incidence between young and older crops, that ALLV and LTSV spread more slowly than AMV. The high level of ALLV in young crops may be due to introduction by seed transmission. The possible effects of these viruses on crop yield and the possible influence of chemical control measures for lucerne aphids are discussed.