How does it spread?
CGMMV is mainly introduced into a crop through contaminated seed and soil. It can remain dormant within the seed coat, and viable for an extended period in plant debris and soil, or on vehicles, equipment and tools.
The virus can also be transferred by sap, with entry of the virus into plant cells being caused by regular pruning, staking and handling.
CGMMV can survive and be spread by:
- infection of roots from contaminated soil
- infected root stock and grafts
- root-to-root contact
- in water or nutrient solutions
- mechanical transfer — even the hands of persons who have been in contact with infected plants
- packagng materials such as harvest, storage or marketing bins
- infected seed
- chewing insects.
What damage can this disease cause?
The combined effects of CGMMV can result in substantial crop losses.