Zucchini yellow mosaic virus: Contact Transmission, Stability on Surfaces, and Inactivation with Disinfectants

Area of Science:

• Plant Pathology
• Virology
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV) is a significant pathogen affecting cucurbit crops.
• Understanding ZYMV transmission routes is vital for effective disease management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the mechanical transmission of ZYMV through direct contact and contaminated surfaces.
• To evaluate the efficacy of various disinfectants in inactivating ZYMV.

Main Methods:

• ZYMV transmission was tested via leaf rubbing, sap inoculation, and contaminated surfaces (cotton, plastic, leather, metal, tire, footwear, skin).
• Virus infectivity on surfaces was assessed over time.
• Disinfectant efficacy was evaluated using sap inoculation on healthy zucchini plants.

Main Results:

• ZYMV remained infectious on surfaces for up to 48 hours (tire), 24 hours (plastic, leather), and 6 hours (cotton, metal, footwear).
• Nonfat dried milk and bleach (sodium hypochlorite) effectively inactivated ZYMV.
• Disinfection of contaminated footwear with bleach prevented ZYMV transmission.

Conclusions:

• Mechanical transmission of ZYMV is significant through direct contact and contaminated materials.
• On-farm hygiene, including tool and machinery decontamination with bleach, is essential for integrated ZYMV management in cucurbits.