Grapevine Fanleaf Virus Prevalence and Genetic Diversity Uncovered in Algerian Vineyards

Strategic Insights -

Research from the University of Ferhat Abbas in Algeria has shed light on the prevalence and genetic diversity of Grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLU) in the country's vineyards. The investigation, which analyzed 414 samples from various grape cultivars and viticulture areas, revealed a 21% infection incidence. The study also identified a nearly complete grapevine fanleaf virus RNA1 consensus sequence of 5,979 nt and an RNA2 with a complete consensus sequence of 3,711 nt. The findings emphasize the need for implementing strict phytosanitary measures to mitigate GFLU spread and its detrimental effects on grapevine production in Algeria.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Grapevine fanleaf virus (GFLU) has a 21% infection incidence in Algerian vineyards, with the highest incidence recorded in the Ahmer Bou Amer region at 61%.
  • The virus was identified in various grape cultivars and viticulture areas, with characteristic symptoms of leaf yellowing, chloroses, and mosaic patterns reducing vine vigour and fruit quality.
  • High throughput sequencing and bioinformatics analyses of a single GFLU-infected accession obtained a nearly complete grapevine fanleaf virus RNA1 consensus sequence of 5,979 nt and an RNA2 with a complete consensus sequence of 3,711 nt.
  • Phylogenetic analyses of an amplified fragment of the GFLU coat protein gene from some of the accessions indicated close genetic relationships between Algerian and Russian/United States of America GFLU isolates, suggesting potential shared origins or transmission pathways.
  • The study concludes that implementing strict phytosanitary measures, such as using virus-free planting material, is essential to mitigate GFLU spread and its detrimental effects on grapevine production in Algeria.
  • The research highlights the importance of monitoring and controlling viroid infections in grapevines, including Grapevine yellow speckle viroid, Hop stunt viroid, and other viruses identified in the background virome.

Statistics:

  • 414 samples were screened using DAS-ELI-SA and partially confirmed by RT-PCR, revealing a 21% infection incidence.
  • The highest incidence of GFLU infection was recorded in the Ahmer Bou Amer region at 61%.
  • The grapevine fanleaf virus RNA1 consensus sequence was 5,979 nt, and the RNA2 consensus sequence was 3,711 nt.
  • 10 authors contributed to the research, including Nour Elhouda Laidoudi, Osamah Alisawi, Bilal Yahiaoui, and others.

Sources:

  • Occurrence of Grapevine Fanleaf Virus In Algerian Vineyards, and Complete Genome Sequencing. Phytopathologia Mediterranea, 2025;64(2):219-228.
  • University of Ferhat Abbas, Fac Nat & Life Sci, Dept. of Agronomy, Laboratory of Applied Microbiology, Setif, Algeria.