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Plantain virus X was first recognized by the ICTV as a species in the genus Potexvirus in 1982. However, because no sequence was available for plantain virus X (PlVX), abolishing the species was proposed to the Flexiviridae working group of the ICTV in 2015. This initiated efforts to sequence the original isolates from Plantago lanceolata samples. Here we report the full‐genome sequencing of two original isolates of PlVX, which demonstrate that the virus is synonymous to Actinidia virus X, a species previously reported from kiwifruit (Actinidia sp.) and blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum). PlVX was previously noted to be widespread in the UK in P. lanceolata. This report additionally presents novel data on the distribution and diversity of PlVX, collected at the same site as the original UK isolates, and from three independent surveys, two in the Netherlands and one in Belgium. This study also includes two new host records for PlVX, Browallia americana and Capsicum annuum (sweet pepper), indicating the virus is more widespread and infects a broader range of hosts than previously reported. This stresses the importance of surveys of noncultivated species to gain insight into viral distribution and host range. This study also demonstrates the value of generating sequence data for isolates retained in virus collections. Additionally, it demonstrates the potential value in prepublication data sharing for giving context to virus detections such as the four independent studies here which, when combined, give greater clarity to the identity, diversity, distribution, and host range of plantain virus X. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) is regulated as a quarantine pest in many countries worldwide. To assess whether ToBRFV is present in cultivations, plants or seed lots, testing is required. The interpretation of test results, however, can be challenging. Reverse transcription‐quantitative (real‐time) PCR results, even though considered “positive”, may not always signify plant infection or indicate the presence of infectious virus, but could be due to the presence of viral residues in the environment. Here, case studies from the Netherlands, Belgium, and the United Kingdom address questions regarding the detection of ToBRFV in various settings, and the infectiousness of ToBRFV‐positive samples. These exploratory analyses demonstrate widespread detection of ToBRFV in diverse samples and environments. ToBRFV was detected inside and around greenhouses with no prior history of ToBRFV infection, and on different materials and surfaces, including those that were untouched by individuals, plants or objects. This suggested the dispersal of viral residues through aerosols. ToBRFV or its residues were more often detected in regions with nearby tomato production, yet were also found in a wider environment extending beyond infected crops. ToBRFV originating from environmental contamination may or may not be infectious, adding complexity to decision‐making in response to positive test results. Contextual information, such as the origin of the sample and the likelihood of residues from prior cultivations and/or the broader environment, is important for interpreting test results. A nuanced approach is crucial to correctly interpret ToBRFV test results, necessitating further research to support risk assessment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]