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High-throughput sequencing (HTS) has been an important tool for the discovery of plant viruses and their surveillance. In 2015, several virus-like symptoms were observed in passion fruit (PF) plants in Bahia state, Brazil. Using HTS technology, bioinformatics tools, RT-PCR, and Sanger sequencing, we identified the cucurbit aphid-borne yellows virus (CABYV, Polerovirus, Solemoviridae) in co-infection with cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus (CABMV, Potyvirus, Potyviridae) in PF, in green manure, and spontaneous plants in several localities in Bahia. Complete genomes of CABYV-PF isolates were determined and analyzed with other CABYV isolates available in GenBank that have been identified in various countries. Phylogenetic analysis and pairwise identity comparison with CABYV isolates showed that CABYV-PFs are more closely related to French and Spanish isolates. Overall, analyses of all the CABYV genomes revealed that these could represent ten distinct species, and we thus proposed reclassifying these CABYV as isolates into ten species, tentatively named "Polerovirus curcubitaeprimum" to "Polerovirus curcubitaenonum", and "Polerovirus melo". CABYV-PF is a member of "Polerovirus curcubitaeprimum". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Passiflora virus Y was detected naturally infecting soybean (Glycine max) for the first time in Brazil. Here, we report the nearly complete genome sequence and molecular and biological properties of the PaVY-Br isolate. The nearly complete genome sequence is 9679 nt long and shares 84.4% nt sequence identity with a previously reported PaVY isolate from Passiflora sp. PaVY-Br induced chlorotic spots and systemic mosaic on soybean and chlorotic local lesions on yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) and sesame (Sesamum indicum). The virus was successfully transmitted by Myzus persicae, indicating that this aphid vector can contribute to the spread of PaYV from passion fruit to soybean plants. Additional epidemiological research is in progress to investigate the distribution of PaVY in soybean production areas in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Passiflora cincinnata Mast. is a wild passion fruit species widely distributed in Brazil, with diverse economic potential and source of resistance to biotic and abiotic stress factors. Despite this, molecular genetic studies on this species are incipient, which limits the definition of priority regions for conservation and identification of accessions to be prospected for germplasm banks and inserted in genetic improvement programs. Thus, this study aimed to characterize the structure and genetic diversity of P. cincinnata accessions using inter simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers. The study was carried out using leaf samples from 213 accessions of P. cincinnata, with 158 accessions from six natural populations (collectively considered in this study as a hypothetical metapopulation) in the state of Bahia, Brazil, and the other 55 accessions from two collections of Embrapa Cerrados and Embrapa Cassava & Fruits active germplasm banks (AGBs). Genetic estimates were based on an analysis of the amplification profile of 12 ISSR primers. Descriptive statistics analysis and the polymorphic information content (PIC) and expected heterozygosity (He) estimates were carried out using the GENES software. Approaches based on the Bayesian model, principal coordinate analysis (PCoA), and analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) were used to assess the genetic structure. Passiflora cincinnata populations/collections showed high polymorphism rates. The metapopulation showed 25.3% of private markers/alleles. The metapopulation is structured in at least three genetic groups, while AGBs in two genetic groups. AMOVA indicated higher diversity within populations, with low differentiation between them. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Brazil, the passion fruit woodiness disease is caused by the cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus (CABMV). It is considered one of the most economically important diseases in the passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims). This study aims to implement the recurrent selection to develop passion fruit cultivars resistant to CABMV and with good agronomic performance. The experiment was led in Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro–Brazil, in a randomized block design with 90 full-sib families, three replications, and three plants per plot. The area below the mean disease progress curve (AUDPCM) was estimated, and the total production per plant (TPP) was evaluated. The estimate analysis of variance components and prediction of genetic gains were performed using the REML/BLUP procedure (Restricted Maximum Likelihood/Best Linear Unbiased Prediction). At the end of the evaluations, all plants presented symptoms of the disease, with different levels of severity. For families RS32 and RS33, the largest number of individuals selected for TPP was obtained. A AUDPCM values ranged from 468.75 to 1717.50 for individuals 438 and 604, respectively. In the selection for AUDPCM, families RS91 and RS84 stood out, with the highest number of resistant individuals selected. Genotypes 497, 582, 438, 495, 581, 92, 791, 506, 552, 183, 443, 669, 219, 724, 189, 378, 477, 244, 239, 126, and 174, are promising and can be used as parents to obtain progenies, to compose the next cycle of recurrent selection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of obesity around the world arises nowadays in its maximum number. Passiflora sp. genus (Passifloreace family) is native to Brazil and widely cultivated in other regions of America. The extracts of their leaves and fruits have been reported to show sedative and anxiolytic effects. Furthermore, they have been used as a medicinal plant in many populations worldwide. The Passiflora genus has been tested through in vivo studies to treat and prevent obesity and its complications. Likewise, their use as ingredients for developing probiotic foods has been increased. Therefore, the current review aimed to summarize and analyze the current knowledge about the in vivo effects of the Passiflora genus in preventing and treating obesity and overweight, following the systematic review protocol. Furthermore, an extensive review of the use of passion fruit and its by-products in the development of probiotic foods has been included. Twelve works were selected in which different Passiflora genus parts (leave, seed, fruit) have been tested as anti-obesity agents, mainly in animal male models where obesity was induced through diet. Most evidence showed that Passiflora supplementation prevents body fat accumulation and protects against liver damage. However, more in vivo studies with female representation and a significant number of subjects are needed to confirm these results. Probiotics foods are related to improving health and obesity. An emergent tendency is developing probiotic foods (dairy or non-dairy based) with passion fruit or its by-products. Therefore, these new probiotic foods could be used in the transition from high sugar and fat foods to palatable-healthy foods in obese people to help them in their dietary pattern modifications. • In vivo studies, mainly in male rodents, have been used to test possible anti-obesity effects of Passiflora genus. • Passiflora supplementation prevents body fat accumulation and protects against liver damage. • Pectin and (poly)phenols compound would be responsible for Passiflora effects. • Passiflora as potential ingredient to obtain probiotic foods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of interactions between plants and animals is important for detecting the degree of vulnerability of species under the current scenario of forest fragmentation. The genus Passiflora (Passifloraceae) is widely distributed in forest formations in Brazil with about 157 species. Here we studied the pollination biology of Passiflora morifolia, a native species of Brazil that is widely distributed in the American continent. Floral biology observations, controlled pollination tests and the recording of floral visitors were carried out in an area of natural occurrence, a fragment of Araucaria Moist Forest, located in the state of Paraná, Brazil. The results showed that the species is self-compatible, with flowers that open at night and remain open and receptive in the morning. The greatest volume of secreted nectar was observed at the beginning of anthesis, when the flower released an intense sweet odor and received visits from nocturnal and crepuscular bees. The bees Megommation insigne and Ptiloglossa willinki were the first visitors to the opened flowers and also the main pollinators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this floristic study, four species of Passiflora (Passiflora cincinnata, P. foetida, P. misera, P. subrotunda) were recorded in the coastal region of the Brazilian State of Piauí. The taxa occur in habitats with moist, muddy, sandy and stony substrates. The most prevalent species were P. foetida and P. subrotunda. An identification key is provided, together with descriptions of the species and data on their occurrence and distribution in the study region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Altitudinal gradients, among other abiotic factors, are directly linked to species' diversity patterns and distributions. Another important factor to be considered is the geographic position of a mountain chain, with oceanic and continental-facing slopes having distinct environmental conditions reflected in distinct phytophysiognomies. We examined the distributions of species of Passifloraceae sensu stricto along an altitudinal gradient (varying from 300 to 2,199 m.a.s.l.) in the Serra dos Órgãos National Park (PARNASO) in Rio de Janeiro state, southeastern Brazil. Field excursions were undertaken to record and collect specimens. Maps were prepared of the distribution of sampling efforts, taking into consideration altitudinal gradients and rainfall. The statistical analysis was made to define the patterns of richness and abundance within the altitudinal classes. Analyses of similarity, grouping and NMDS were made of the oceanic and continental slopes. A total of 19 species of Passifloraceae s.s. were encountered. The greatest species richness was found at intermediate elevations (1,100-1,300 m.a.s.l). The similarity index between the two exposure slopes was 28%, indicating distinct species compositions on different faces. Our data helps to define the distribution and species composition of Passifloraceae s.s. within the PARNASO, and should be useful for conservation actions there. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Anastrepha contains some of the most important fruit pests in the Americas. It comprises more than 300 species, of which 129 occur in Brazil. The genus is divided into 26 species groups, including the pseudoparallela group with 31 species, whose known host plants are primarily fruits of the genus Passiflora (Passifloraceae). Fourteen species are recorded in Brazil. Here, a new species of Anastrepha reared from fruits of Passiflora actinia Hook. and Passiflora elegans Mast. from southern Brazil is described and illustrated. In addition, a synopsis of the Brazilian species of the pseudoparallela group is provided., (© 2024. Sociedade Entomológica do Brasil.)

Passion fruit woodiness disease (PWD), caused by cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus (CABMV), produces socioeconomic problems in Brazil. The objectives of this study were to i) evaluate the temporal progression of PWD, ii) identify Passiflora genotypes with resistance to CABMV, and iii) detect virus infection in asymptomatic plants by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) in cases where standard RT-PCR detection failed. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse using 128 genotypes belonging to 12 species and three hybrids (inter- and intraspecific) of Passiflora, evaluated at five time points after inoculation. Progression rates and disease severity were lower in P. cincinnata, P. gibertii, P. miersii, and P. mucronata than in P. edulis, P. alata, Passiflora sp., and hybrids. Of the genotypes tested, 20.31% were resistant, especially the accessions of P. suberosa, P. malacophylla, P. setacea, P. pohlii, and P. bahiensis, which remained asymptomatic throughout the experiment. The absence of symptoms does not imply immunity of plants to the virus, since RT-qPCR analysis confirmed infection by the virus in asymptomatic plants of P. cincinnata, P. gibertii, P. miersii, P. mucronata, P. setacea, P. malacophylla, and P. suberosa. Even after four inoculations, the virus was not detected by RT-qPCR in the upper leaves in plants of the species P. pohlii and P. bahiensis, indicating that these species are probably immune to CABMV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Passiflora subgen. Astrophea sect. Capreolata, Passiflora bacabensis, has been collected in a typical cerrado environment (savanna) in the Parque Municipal do Bacaba (Bacaba Municipal Park), Mato Grosso state, Brazil. This species show similarities to P. cerradensis, especially when dried in the herbarium. Here, we present a description, illustrations, a distribution map, an identification key the Brazilian species of P. sect. Capreolata and the conservation status of Passiflora bacabensis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of Andean fruit crops is viewed as an important and healthy contribution to global food consumption but ecophysiological studies on these fruit trees are scarce. 96% of approximately 520 Passiflora L. species are distributed in the Americas, especially in Colombia and Brazil. Many of these species originated on the edges of humid forests in tropical valleys. The four species: yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa Degener), sweet granadilla (Passiflora ligularis Juss.), purple passion fruit (Passiflora edulis f. edulis Sims) and banana passion fruit (Passiflora tripartita var. mollissima (Kunth) Holm-Niels & P.M. Jørg) are widely cultivated in Colombia, and their ecophysiological findings are described in this review. The demands, in terms of temperature (°C) and altitude (masl) are, for yellow passion fruits: 15-28 °C and 0-1,300 masl; sweet granadillas: 15-23 °C and 1,800-2,600 masl; purple passion fruits: 15-22/12-14 °C (day/night) and 1,600-2,300 masl; and banana passion fruit: 13-16 °C and 1.800-3.200 masl; all of them have high requirements for solar radiation, a minimum of 7 h of sunshine per day, to encourage flowering and fruit quality. Cloudy days decrease growth, flower bud induction and flower opening. Temperature and photosynthetic active radiation are the climatic factors that have the greatest effect on plant development. Relative humidity between 60 and 80% supports effective pollination and fecundation. Passiflora L. crops do not support long periods of waterlogging, with a maximum of 4 days for yellow passion fruit. Climatic events such as prolonged rain, intense droughts, strong winds and hail are harmful for these plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Passion fruit woodiness disease induced by Cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus (CABMV) is currently the most harmful viral disease affecting passion fruit crops. Given the economic importance of this fruit crop in Brazil, it is essential that passion fruit breeding programs invest in developing resistant and productive cultivars. The goals of this study were to estimate genetic parameters of agronomic and resistance traits via restricted maximum likelihood (REML) and select individuals found to be resistant to CABMV and agronomically superior, in order to provide the basis for further studies on passion fruit breeding, with the aim to develop cultivars resistant to CABMV. The study was conducted in randomized block design, with four replicates. Three full-sib families from the recombination of RC1 parents were evaluated. Based on the severity data, the area below the mean disease progress curve (AUDPCM) was estimated. Five traits relating to fruit yield and quality were also assessed. The components of variance and genetic values were estimated by the REML/best linear unbiased prediction (BLUP) mixed model methodology. A difference in the severity of CABMV symptoms was recorded among the 119 genotypes evaluated. AUDPCM values varied from 750 to 1252.5 for individuals 202 and 161, respectively. Family 1 distinguished itself with the largest number of individuals selected for resistance; for agronomic traits, families 1 and 2 contributed most of the selected genotypes. Genotypes 167, 24, 34, 23 and 202 achieved the lowest AUDPCM values, being selected for most of the agronomic traits; these results indicate the potential of these genotypes to be chosen and recombined for the advancement of generations in breeding programs aimed at developing resistance to CABMV. The strategy of recombining resistant genotypes from RC1 populations appears to be promising for breeding for resistance to CABMV, of which the heritability is complex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Passiflora setacea DC. is a wild species of passion fruit popularly known as 'maracujá-do-sono' or 'sururuca'. It has been recognized for its potential in passion fruit genetic improvement, due to its resistance to several phytopathogens. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the genetic diversity among and within wild populations of P. setacea DC. from different regions of Bahia state, Brazil, revealed by SSR markers. In this regard, 147 samples of plants were collected from 18 localities and six different identity territories in the state. Six pairs of primers were able to amplify polymorphic loci for all individuals. We performed principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) and molecular variance analysis (AMOVA) using Nei genetic distances between individuals of each locations. In addition, we performed two Bayesian analyzes, using Structure and Structurama softwares. High levels of genetic differentiation between populations were observed, as well as the absence of correlation between genetic and geographic distances using the Mantel test. The populations have moderate polymorphism and diverge into two groups: one including populations from the southwestern distribution range, while the other contains all other populations. The existence of two genetic groups was supported by both Bayesian analyses of genetic structure. These results indicate that these populations should be considered for conserving the diversity of P. setacea in germplasm banks, as well as the use in genetic improvement programs of passion fruit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work describes a new species of Passiflora L. from the extreme west of the state of Bahia, Brazil. The new species, P. jorgeana Mezzonato, is placed in Passiflora subg. Astrophea (DC.) Mast. and is illustrated and compared to four morphologically similar species. Morphological features, geographic distribution, and conservation status are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

About 600 species of Passiflora are described around the world, of which 120 are native to Brazil. In the present work, the phytochemical compounds were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography, and the antioxidant activities (AOX) were measured in the pulp of P. edulis and P. cincinnata species. The P. edulis presented a higher bioactive content and AOX when compared to P. cincinnata. Citric and malic acids were the main organic acids found. The principal component analysis-PCA associated the highest values of quercetin-3-glucoside, hesperidin, trans-caftaric acid, chlorogenic acid, caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, trans-resveratrol, rutin, procyanidin-B2, epigallocatechin-gallate and epicatechin-gallate, to P. cincinnata. The P. edulis was associated with higher values of total phenolic, vitamin C, total carotenoids, AOX (DPPH•, ABTS+• and FRAP), cis-resveratrol, naringenin, kaempferol-3-glucoside, myricetin and procyanidin-B1. P. cincinnata, although not a commercial species such as P. edulis, presented phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity in acceptable values, including the high values of quercetin 3-glucoside. The present study contributes to the knowledge of the physical-chemical composition of the Passiflora species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

subgenus Passiflora possesses about 236 species divided into six supersections, among which Stipulata with Granadillastrum is one of its sections. The objective of the present study was to analyse the pollen morphology of 19 species subordinate to the section Granadillastrum and to identify attributes important for the taxonomy of the group. Pollen grains were acetolysed, measured, described and illustrated under light and scanning electron microscopy. Two pollen types differing in polarity were found in the section: Pollen Type I with apolar pollen grains and Pollen Type II with isopolar pollen grains. Type I included large, colpate pollen grains (varying from six to nine colpi), while Type II included large, 6-syncolpate or 3-colpate pollens. All of the studied species had a reticulate exine, sinuous muri, continuous with or without perforations, and ornamented lumina. Hierarchical cluster analysis and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to interpret the formation of the principal pollen groups based on morphology. Two of the analysed species of section (Passiflora imbeana and P. setulosa) are at risk of extinction. The present study is extremely important for characterising pollen morphology such that taxa can be delimited and knowledge acquired for conservation purposes. Five of the studied species had their pollen characterised for the first time, which will be useful to future taxonomic and phylogenetic analyses. This species have pollen characters, such as the number and type of apertures that are important for delimiting some species, while ornamentation in general is similar among taxa and characterises the section. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Passion fruit (Passiflora cincinnata Mast.) is a native fruit from the Caatinga, a typical ecoregion in northeastern Brazil, and it has potential for use by the food and pharmaceutical industries. In this study, we characterized the antimicrobial activity of P. cincinnata and its application in the production of coalho cheese, a traditional Brazilian product. Aqueous extract of P. cincinnata exhibited high inhibitory activity against Listeria spp. (n = 4, reference strains), Staphylococcus aureus (n = 3, reference strains), and multidrug-resistant Staph. aureus (n = 8), and low inhibitory activity against lactic acid bacteria (LAB, n = 3, reference strains). Based on these results, we produced coalho cheese using goat milk with and without (control) passion fruit. Cheeses were stored at 10°C for 14 d and populations of mesophilic aerobes, Staph. aureus , and presumptive LAB were monitored at d 1, 7 and 14. The passion fruit cheese had lower counts of mesophilic aerobes, Staph. aureus (after 7 and 14 d), and presumptive LAB (after 14 d) than the control cheese. Adding ground passion fruit contributed to a reduction of Staph. aureus counts in goat cheese, although these differences were not significant. These results indicated the inhibitory potential of passion fruit and its potential use for controlling microbial populations in a cheese model; further studies are needed to characterize the active molecules that are responsible for such activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A new species of Passiflora L. in subgenus Decaloba (DC.) Rchb. from Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil is described; its history, taxonomy, distribution, ecology and cultivation are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Passiflora subgenus Passiflora from the Brazilian flora is described and illustrated in this article. Passiflora faleiroi was collected in Prado, state of Bahia, and belongs to the supersection Stipulata, section Granadillastrum. Passiflora faleiroi is compared to two similar species, P. mucronata Lam. and P. silvestris Vell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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This paper estimates the economic value of ecosystem services provided by Brazilian native bee, Xylocopa spp. Latreille (Hymenoptera: Apidae), pollination on a scale relevant to individual smallholder farmers that produce yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims). The study areas are located in the vicinity of Pedro de Toledo and Itariri (Sao Paulo State—Brazil), in the Atlantic Forest region. The local economy is based on family farms, small stores, and ecotourism. The value was obtained using the ecological economics Avoided Cost Method, also known as replacement cost. Farms from this region informally hire temporary day laborers to supplement natural pollination with manual pollination of passion fruit flowers, so the cost of contracting temporary laborers was used to estimate the economic value of bee pollination. The value of pollination services was estimated at US$ 2,583.00 per hectare over 2 yr of P. edulis farming. Our estimates based on passion fruit farmer surveys and ecological valuation over 2 yr suggest that manual pollination accounts for 44–48% of production costs and results in a loss of ~58% of profits when wild bee pollination services are not available and manual pollination is required. We suggest that smallholder farmers follow the suggestions of previous studies and conserve adequate forest habitat for bee nesting and foraging, plan pesticide use around flowering and pollination, and supplement bee populations to maximize the benefit of the pollination ecosystem service and profits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Brazil, passion flower is grown across almost the entire country. The predominant disease of the passion flower crop is passion fruit woodiness, caused by the potyvirus cowpea aphid‐borne mosaic virus (CABMV), and transmitted by aphids in a nonpersistent manner. The disease reduces the useful life of the orchard from 36 months to approximately 18 months. Up to now, there has not been an efficient method for disease management. The aim of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of systematic roguing of diseased plants through weekly inspections, for disease management in the field. The latent and incubation periods of CABMV in passion flower vines were determined in order to optimize roguing efficiency. Passion fruit plants inoculated with CABMV started to act as sources of inoculum from 3 days after inoculation (DAI), and the symptoms were expressed, on average, at 8 DAI. Five field experiments, conducted in the states of São Paulo and Bahia, Brazil, demonstrated that systematic roguing of diseased plants was significantly efficient for managing passion fruit woodiness disease. In order to facilitate identification and subsequent removal of the infected plants, they need to be grown separately. This cultural practice can be recommended for managing passion fruit woodiness disease, provided it is applied on a regional scale by all passion fruit growers. The development of some pilot plantings for the application of roguing in a passion flower‐producing region is recommended to validate the use of this technique for managing passion fruit woodiness disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Brazil, diseases caused by soil-borne pathogens such as Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. passiflorae are major constraints to the yellow passion fruit crop. We report the use of the survival analysis technique to assess the resistance of Passiflora spp. to Fusarium wilt in field conditions in a coastal tableland region of Brazil. Fifty genotypes were evaluated comprising the species Passiflora edulis, P. alata, P. gibertii, P. nitida, P. setacea, P. cincinnata, and backcross [(P. edulis x P. cincinnata) x P. edulis ] and three graft combinations of P. edulis onto P. nitida , P. gibertii or P. alata. Plant growth and Fusarium wilt incidence were evaluated using 30 plants of each genotype in a completely randomized design. The highest growth speed indexes (GSI) were observed in P. cincinnata (BGP077) and P. edulis (BRS-GA) grafted onto P. gibertii (BGP008) with 12.04 and 11.96, respectively. Conversely, P. nitida (BGP390) had the lowest growth rate (4.10). Plants of P. gibertii , P. nitida and P. setacea did not present Fusarium wilt symptoms until 15 months after planting and presented the same median survival time with 466 days. Among P. edulis genotypes, Fusarium wilt incidence varied within three reaction groups, with the highest median survival time of 286 days. P. alata and P. cincinnata plants had high Fusarium wilt incidence (median survival time 250 and 252, respectively), similar to P. edulis , with 80% of symptomatic plants at 15 months after planting and median survival time of 240 days. Interspecific backcross hybrids differed from genotypes and intraspecific hybrids of P. edulis despite the similar median survival time among all of them (239–252 days). Grafting P. edulis onto wild species did not decrease Fusarium wilt incidence in relation to the most resistant group of P. edulis genotypes. • All the evaluated accessions of Passiflora edulis were susceptible to Fusarium wilt. • Different resistance levels were identified based on the mean survival time to Fusarium wilt. • Seedlings of P. gibertii , P. nitida and P. setacea rootstocks are resistant to Fusarium wilt. • Disease incidence was similar for grafted plants and the most resistant accessions of P. edulis. • Survival analysis may support the selection of resistant Passiflora genotypes to Fusarium wilt. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazil's great territorial extension and its climate and soil conditions make the country the third fruit producer worldwide. However, during the processing of pulp, juices and other fruit derivates, tons of wastes are produced which are normally discarded inadequately, with consequent environmental pollution. Current study investigates the antioxidant capacity and anti-nutrition factors in flour prepared from the wastes of the pulp of pineapple, acerola, cajá, mangoes and passionflower to aggregate commercial value and decrease impacts on the environment. Antioxidant capacity was assessed by assays involving co-oxidation of β-carotene and linoleic acid and the degradation of 2-desoxyrribose (2-DR). The amounts of oxalates, nitrates, phytates, hemaglutinant activity (HGA) and total saponins were investigated within the context of anti-nutrition factors. Mango and passionflower flours were highlighted for their antioxidant capacity. All types of flour had low rates of anti-nutritional factors. Results reveal a broad investigation field related to the integral reuse of tropical fruits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Passiflora subgenus Astrophea is one of the five recognised subgenera of Passiflora. Brazil presents ca. 26 species of this subgenus with the majority distributed in the Amazon Basin. During the ongoing taxonomic revision of the Brazilian species of subg. Astrophea, seven species previously unknown for the country were recorded: Passiflora amoena, P. fuchsiiflora, P. jussieui, P. ovata, P. plumosa, P. quelchii, and P. tessmannii. The new records expand the species distribution ranges, especially for P. plumosa, which was exclusively known from its type locality and P. quelchii, which was known only for southeastern Guyana. The authors provide taxonomic and palynological descriptions, distribution maps and illustrations for these species, in the hope that the knowledge and understanding of Brazilian Passifloraceae s.s. will be improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bean-associated cytorhabdovirus (BaCV) is a strain of Cytorhabdovirus caricae (genus Cytorhabdovirus, family Rhabdoviridae) identified in Brazil, in bean and soybean plants, in mixed infection with cowpea mild mottle virus (CPMMV, genus Carlavirus, family Betaflexiviridae). Ensuing the report of citrus-associated rhabdovirus (CiaRV — a citrus strain of Cytorhabdovirus caricae) infecting passion fruit in China, we speculated that BaCV, and possibly CPMMV, could be present in passion fruit crops in Brazil. This was tested by screening cultivated and wild Passiflora spp., and hybrid by RT-PCR and amplicon sequencing, which confirmed the presence of BaCV and CPMMV in several Passiflora spp. A total of 114 surveyed plants were collected in multiple locations from 2016 to 2021 and BaCV was identified in 4 of 19 cultivated P. edulis plants from a commercial field in Distrito Federal, Central Brazil. Moreover, while BaCV was detected in 4 of the 55 Passiflora accessions sampled at the Germplasm Bank "Flor da Paixão" (BAG-FP), CPMMV was identified in 14 of these 55 Passiflora spp. and hybrid accessions. This is the first record of BaCV in P. edulis in Brazil, and CPMMV and BaCV in other wild Passiflora species in the world. To investigate the potential mixed infection of BaCV and CPMMV-infected plants and other viruses previously identified infecting Passiflora spp. in Brazil, RT-PCR was conducted with specific primers for lettuce chlorosis virus (LCV, genus Crinivirus, family Closteroviridae) and cowpea aphid-borne mosaic virus (CABMV, genus Potyvirus, family Potyviridae). Most of the inspected plants had a mixed infection with these viruses. Our results warrant further studies to evaluate these viruses' epidemiology, impacts, and interactions in the passion fruit crop. • First report of bean-associated cytorhabdovirus (BaCV) in Passiflora spp. • First report of cowpea mild mottle virus (CPMMV) in Passiflora spp. • Diverse cultivated and wild Passiflora spp. were infected by BaCV and CPMMV. • BaCV and CPMMV were identified along with a crinivirus and a potyvirus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

New records for species of Passiflora subgenus Astrophea are reported, contributing to the increasing distribution knowledge of the Passifloraceae in Brazil. These records are: Passiflora balbis Feuillet, from the state of Amazonas, Passiflora ceratocarpa F. Silveira, from the states of Amapá and Amazonas, Passiflora cerradensis Sacco, from Minas Gerais, Passiflora costata Mast., from Acre, Amapá, Mato Grosso, and Roraima, and Passiflora mansoi (Mart.) Mast., from Maranhão and Tocantins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Passiflora cincinnata Masters is a Brazilian native species of passionflower. This genus is known in the American continent folk medicine for its diuretic and analgesic properties. Nevertheless, few studies investigated possible biological effects of P. cincinnata extracts. Further, evidence of antioxidant actions encourages the investigation of possible neuroprotective effects in animal models of neurodegenerative diseases. This study investigates the effect of the P. cincinnata ethanolic extract (PAS) on mice submitted to a progressive model of Parkinson’s disease (PD) induced by reserpine. Male (6-month-old) mice received reserpine (0.1 mg/kg, s.c.), every other day, for 40 days, with or without a concomitant treatment with daily injections of PAS (25 mg/kg, i.p.). Catalepsy, open field, oral movements, and plus-maze discriminative avoidance evaluations were performed across treatment, and immunohistochemistry for tyrosine hydroxylase was conducted at the end. The results showed that PAS treatment delayed the onset of motor impairments and prevented the occurrence of increased catalepsy behavior in the premotor phase. However, PAS administration did not modify reserpine-induced cognitive impairments. Moreover, PAS prevented the decrease in tyrosine hydroxylase immunostaining in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc) induced by reserpine. Taken together, our results suggested that PAS exerted a neuroprotective effect in a progressive model of PD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Green manure decomposition and nutrient recycling improve soil quality and productivity of different crops, but information on irrigated fruit orchards in the Brazilian semi-arid region is still scarce. Decomposition and nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium release from the cut biomass of three green manure legumes (sunn hemp, pigeon pea and jack bean) placed in litterbags, and spontaneous vegetation grown for 90 days in the rows of a passion fruit orchard were followed for 150 days. Biomasses decreased exponentially, reaching 12 (sunn hemp) to 25% (jack beans and spontaneous vegetation) after 150 days. K was rapidly released (< 21 and 4% of the original content remaining after 7 and 150 days, respectively), contrasting with more than half of the P and one third of the N remaining after 150 days. The amounts released were more influenced by the amounts of biomass produced (sunn hemp, 1583); (Jack bean 5152 kg ha -1 ); (Pigeon pea 822 kg ha -1 ); (Spontaneous plants 3175 kg ha -1 ); (spontaneous legumes 744 kg ha -1 ) than by variation in decomposition proportions among species. N release represented a liquid input to the soil, since more than 80% of the green manure and spontaneous vegetation contents came from N 2 -symbiotic fixation. Therefore, green manure is an effective technique to incorporate N and recycle K and P in irrigated orchards in the Brazilian semi-arid region., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG.)

The aim of this research was to determine the sample size needed to estimate the average of wild passion fruit (Passiflora caerulea) traits. It was collected randomly, 133, 99 and 133 fruit of wild passion fruit in 30, 21 and 29 plants, located respectively, in the cities of São Borja, Itaqui and Uruguaiana, on the west border of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, totaling 365 fruits harvested in 80 plants. In each fruit were measured ten traits: width, length, fruit, skin, and pulp weight, pulp yield, luminosity and tone of skin and pulp. Then, central tendency, dispersion and distribution measures were calculated and the normality of the data checked. After, it was determined the sample size needed to estimate the average for each character, assuming estimation errors equal to 1, 2, ..., 10% of the mean estimate with confidence levels of 95% and 99%. In wild passion fruit, 12 fruits are sufficient to estimate the mean of luminosity and tone of the skin and pulp, with an estimation error of 5% of the mean and 95% confidence, regardless of the evaluation location (São Borja, Itaqui or Uruguaiana). In this same level of accuracy 36 fruits are needed to estimate the width and length, 52 fruits to estimate the pulp yield and 319 fruits for the evaluation of the fruit, skin and pulp weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The seed oils of different varieties of 4 Passiflora species cultivated in Brazil were analyzed and compared regarding their physicochemical parameters, fatty acid composition and the presence of minor components, such as phytosterols, tocopherols, total carotenoids, and phenolic compounds. The antioxidant capacities of the oil extracts were determined using the 2,2'azinobis [3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid] and oxygen radical absorbance capacity methods. The results revealed that all studied Passiflora seed oils possessed similar physicochemical characteristics, except for color, and predominantly contained polyunsaturated fatty acids with a high percentage of linolenic acid (68.75% to 71.54%). Other than the total phytosterol content, the extracted oil from Passiflora setacea BRS Pérola do Cerrado seeds had higher quantities (% times higher than the average of all samples), of carotenoids (44%), phenolic compounds (282%) and vitamin E (215%, 56%, 398%, and 100% for the a-tocopherol, β-tocopherol, γ-tocopherol, and d-tocopherol isomers, respectively). The methanolic extracts from Passiflora setacea BRS Pérola do Cerrado seed oil also showed higher antioxidant activity, which was positively correlated with the total phenolic, δ-tocopherol, and vitamin E contents. For the first time, these results indicate that Passiflora species have strong potential regarding the use of their seeds for oil extraction. Due to their interesting composition, the seed oils may be used as a raw material in manufacturing industries in addition to other widely used vegetable oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Extrafloral nectaries (EFN) are nectar glands external to flower, which may be distributed over various plant parts. The nectar is attractive to many arthropods, especially ants, which protect the plant against herbivores. The EFN are found in representatives of more than 90 families of plants, among these is the Passifloraceae. This study deals with the morphological and anatomical description of Passiflora alata EFN, including its macroscopic and tissue composition. For this study 20 samples of EFN were collected in petiole of P. alata, and were fixed in FAA solution and forwarded to histotechnical processing for cuts in thickness of 14 μm and stained with safranin, fast green and PAS. It was also performed cuts and staining with unfixed materials testing for the presence of starch, using Lugol. Histologically it was observed a multisseriate epidermis covering the bottom of EFN, it was followed by several cell layers of nectariferous parenchyma which is responsible for secretion of nectar, further is the vascular tissue which has plenty of phloem cells, and the xylem tissue lasts only until the subnectary parenchyma, in other words, no enters the main area of production of nectar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work several different natural products from the Amazon forest were analyzed by means of Raman spectroscopy, using the 1064-nm laser line as a way to obtain the spectra. All the oil samples from handmade produced buriti, babaçu, and pequi, as well as the refined andiroba, cold-pressed passion flower, and palm oils, were acquired in the local market in Brazil. Some products present in all the spectra of the ν(C˭C) vibration, observed in the 1525 cm−1region, the ν(C-C) mode near 1158 cm−1, and the ρ(C-CH3) mode near 1008 cm−1, can be seen; all these bands are assigned generally to the presence of a C9 carotenoid and can be more precisely attributed to the ν1, ν2, and δ modes of β-carotene. Also, the characteristic Raman scattering bands common to all the oils arising from vibrations of the hydrocarbon chains can be observed, namely, aromatic ring C˭C stretching at 1658 cm−1(ν(C˭C)); CH2scissoring deformation at 1439 cm−1(δ(CH2); vibrations of in-phase methylene twisting at 1301 cm−1, and symmetric CH rocking in unconjugatedcis-double bonds at 1270 cm−1(δ(C–H)), as well as C˭O stretching from the ester groups at 1747 cm−1[ν(C˭O)]. It is noteworthy that most natural oils have a major contribution of components of some of the main fatty acids: palmitic (C16), oleic (C18:1), and linoleic (C18:2), and no carotenoid was detected in the Raman spectra of the white babaçu oil or in the pale yellow andiroba oil. As a major conclusion, direct Raman spectroscopic measurements using a near-infrared wavelength as the excitation source can be used as a primary test to monitor the quality control of natural oils extracted from the Amazon forest, namely, andiroba, burity, babaçu, and pequi oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Ethnopharmacological relevance: Passiflora alata is a Southern American species that constitutes many traditional remedies as well as phytomedicines used for sedative and anxiolytic purposes in Brazil. However studies on repeated treatment effects are scarce. Aim of the study: To evaluate behavioral, physiological and biochemical effects of the repeated treatment with an aqueous spray-dried extract of Passiflora alata leaves containing 2.5% (w/v) of flavonoids (PA) in mice. Material and methods: Male adult CF1 mice were treated (p.o.) for 14 days with PA (2.5; 25 or 250mg/kg). The feeding behavior was evaluated at the beginning (1h after the first administration) and at the end of the treatment (15th day). The body weight gain and food consumption were monitored along the days. On day 15 mice were evaluated on plus maze, spontaneous locomotor activity, catalepsy and barbiturate sleeping time tests. Serum glucose, lipids, ALT and AST enzymes were determined. Liver, kidney, perirenal fat, epididymal and peritoneal fat were analyzed. Results: The repeated treatment with the highest dose tested (250mg/kg) did not alter the mice behavior on open field, elevated plus maze, catalepsy and barbiturate sleeping time tests. Repeated administration of PA 250 decreased mice feeding behavior and weight gain. PA 25 and PA 250 reduced mice relative liver weight and caused mild hepatic hydropic degeneration as well as a decrease in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) serum level. Conclusions: These results indicate that Passiflora alata does not present central cumulative effects and point to the needs of further studies searching for its hepatotoxicity as well as potential anorexigenic. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Passiflora alata Curtis (sweet passion fruit), native to Brazil, is one of the commercially cultivated species of the genus, being consumed in natura due to its sweet taste, and also used as an ornamental. The goal of this work was to develop new strategies for in vitro culture of P. alata, including plant production, and establishment of callogenesis and cell suspension cultures. Shoot elongation rate and number of nodes per shoot of the primary cultures were improved by adding coconut water to the medium. Plants derived from primary cultures were used as sources of nodal, internodal and leaf explants. Shoot formation occurred through distinct pathways in response to 6-benzyladenine. Internodal and leaf explants displayed both direct and indirect organogenesis, resulting in the formation of 9.9±1.3 and 2.0 shoots per explant, respectively. Nodal segments originated organogenic calluses, with the production of 12.9±1.5 shoots per explant. Shoots were transferred to elongation medium (MSM+10% coconut water), and showed root formation at a frequency of 100%, after 30 days of culture. Friable calluses were induced from nodal and leaf segments in the presence of PIC, and those obtained from leaves on medium supplemented with 28.9μM PIC were selected for the establishment of cell suspension cultures. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Of the 15 species of passion vines recorded for the Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, nine are used by Heliconius erato phyllis (Fabricius, 1775). The larvae of this species feed preferentially on Passiflora misera H.B.K., which confers greater performance despite presenting smaller amounts of nutrients than other host plants. Thus, the performance associated with the consumption of a passion vine is possibly related not only to its nutritional content but also to the morphological and behavioral mechanisms involved in the feeding. In this study, the difficulties in accessing food imposed by the hosts ( P. misera, Passiflora suberosa L., Passiflora caerulea L., Passiflora edulis Sims, and Passiflora alata Dryand.) were evaluated. Focal observations were performed every 2 min during 6-h sessions (sequential sampling), and the relative time spent for different behaviors (resting, feeding, walking, tasting, and vein cutting) was quantified on both young and old leaves. Larvae devoted more time feeding on P. misera in most cases. Larvae observed on P. alata devoted more to time resting and less time feeding, performing one or two meals of small duration, every 6 h. First instar caterpillars on old leaves of P. suberosa and P. caerulea spent more time walking, searching for a favorable feeding site. The hardness of leaves may be a limiting factor for the initial instars in this heliconian. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to evaluate the production and productivity of yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims f. flavicarpa Deg.) subjected to different pruning for renewal. The experiment was conducted in commercial orchard in Lavras, MG (21°14'S; 45°58'W; altitude de 910 m), from July/2006 to June/2008. The seedlings originated from seeds planted in 4x3 m spacing, conducted in a vertical trellis wire. The experimental design was randomized blocks in factorial scheme of 5x3: number of tertiary branches per plant (40, 30, 24, 20 and 14) and length of pruning branches (40, 80 and 120 cm) with four replications of three plants. The following characteristics were evaluated: number of fruits per plant, mean weight of fruit, fruit and juice yield. The renewal pruning affected the amount and size of the yellow passion fruit. Plants that have suffered more severe pruning, leaving 14 and 20 stems and tertiary pruned to 40 cm in length, had lower productivity in the first season after renewal pruning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Almost 90% of species of the genus Passiflora are native to the American continent, with high commercial value due to the fact that some species are used for human food while others have ornamental and medical qualities. Passiflora serrato-digitata is one of the species that integrates the Paraná Agronomic Institute germoplasm bank at its experimental base in Londrina, PR, Brazil. Collected flower buds were fixed in ethanol/acetic acid (3:1 v/v) for 24h, transferred to 70% alcohol and stored under refrigeration. Slides were prepared by the squashing technique and stained with 1.0% propionic carmine; they were analyzed under an optic microscope. Irregularities in the chromosome segregation process of P. serrato-digitata have been verified by meiotic behavior analysis. These comprised precocious migration to poles in metaphase I and II, non-oriented chromosomes in metaphase plate in metaphase I and II, laggard chromosomes in anaphase I and II towards the formation of micronucleus in telophase I and II, and microspores in tetrads. Chromosome stickiness was another irregularity reported in the Passiflora genus for the first time. These irregularities which also contributed to the formation of monads, dyads and triads, resulted in normal imbalanced 2n and 4n microspores. According to the observed Meiotic Index of 71.83%, this species is not meiotically stable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. passiflorae causes bacterial spot in passion fruit. It attacks the purple and yellow passion fruit as well as the sweet passion fruit. The diversity of 87 isolates of pv. passiflorae collected from across 22 fruit orchards in Brazil was evaluated using molecular profiles and statistical procedures, including an unweighted pair-group method with arithmetical averages-based dendrogram, analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA), and an assigning test that provides information on genetic structure at the population level. Isolates from another eight pathovars were included in the molecular analyses and all were shown to have a distinct repetitive sequence-based polymerase chain reaction profile. Amplified fragment length polymorphism technique revealed considerable diversity among isolates of pv. passiflorae, and AMOVA showed that most of the variance (49.4%) was due to differences between localities. Cluster analysis revealed that most genotypic clusters were homogeneous and that variance was associated primarily with geographic origin. The disease adversely affects fruit production and may kill infected plants. A method for rapid diagnosis of the pathogen, even before the disease symptoms become evident, has value for producers. Here, a set of primers (Xapas) was designed by exploiting a single-nucleotide polymorphism between the sequences of the intergenic 16S-23S rRNA spacer region of the pathovars. Xapas was shown to effectively detect all pv. passiflorae isolates and is recommended for disease diagnosis in passion fruit orchards. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Passiflora alata is an official species of Brazilian Pharmacopoeia and its aerial parts are used as medicinal plant by local population as well as constitutes many phytomedicines commercialized in Brazil as sedative. Aims of study: To evaluate the acute and sub-acute toxicity and genotoxicity of an aqueous spray-dried extract (PA) of Passiflora alata (2.6% flavonoids). Materials and methods: The acute and the sub-acute toxicity was evaluated in mice and rats, respectively. Behavioural, biochemical, hematological, histological and urine parameters were considered. Genotoxicity was assessed by using micronucleus test performed in peripheral blood and bone marrow cells and comet assay in peripheral blood leukocytes. Results: Mice deaths were not observed up to 4800mg/kg, p.o., single dose. Rats treated with aqueous extract at dose of 300mg/kg, p.o., for 14 days did not present biochemical, hematological or histopathological significant alterations when compared to control group. However, these rats showed signs of irritability and did not show weight gain. In addition, mice acutely treated with extract 150, 300 and 600mg/kg, p.o., presented DNA damage determined by comet assay in peripheral blood cells 3h after treatment. The effect of lower doses (12.5, 25 and 50mg/kg, p.o.) was evaluated at 3, 6 and 24h after treating. Only PA 50mg/kg (p.o.) induced significant damage at 3 and 6h. The maximum damage induction was observed at 6h. When the animals received PA 12.5, 25 or 50mg/kg/day during 3 days (i.e., 72h treatment) DNA damage (comet and micronucleus tests) increased significantly in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: In conclusion Passiflora alata presented genotoxic effect and deserves further toxicity evaluation in order to guarantee its safety for human use. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Background: Understanding how people of diverse cultural backgrounds have traditionally used plants and animals as medicinal substances during displacements is one of the most important objectives of ethnopharmacological studies. An ethnopharmacological survey conducted among migrants living in the Southeast Atlantic Forest remnants (Diadema, São Paulo, Brazil) is presented herein. Methods: Ethnographical methods were used to select and interview the migrants, and botanical and zoological techniques were employed to collect the indicated resources. Results: We interviewed five migrants who described knowledge on 12 animals and 85 plants. Only 78 plants were present in Diadema, they belong to 37 taxonomic families; 68 were used exclusively for medicinal purposes, whereas 10 were reported to be toxic and/or presented some restriction of use. These taxa were grouped into 12 therapeutic categories (e.g., gastrointestinal disturbances, inflammatory processes or respiratory problems) based on the 41 individual complaints cited by the migrants. While the twelve animal species were used by the migrants to treat nine complaints; these were divided into six categories, the largest of which related to respiratory problems. None of the animal species and only 57 of the 78 plant species analysed in the present study were previously reported in the pharmacological literature; the popular knowledge concurred with academic findings for 30 of the plants. The seven plants [Impatiens hawkeri W. Bull., Artemisia canphorata Vill., Equisetum arvensis L., Senna pendula (Humb. & Bonpl. ex Willd.) H.S. Irwin & Barneby, Zea mays L., Fevillea passiflora Vell. and Croton fuscescens Spreng)] and the two animals (Atta sexdens and Periplaneta americana) that showed maintenance of use among migrants during their displacement in Brazilian territory, have not been studied by pharmacologists yet. Conclusions: Thus, they should be highlighted and focused in further pharmacology and phytochemical studies, since the persistence of their uses can be indicative of bioactive potentials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Passiflora L. (Passifloraceae) genus consists of about 500 species widely distributed throughout tropical and subtropical regions, commonly known as the passion flower. The passion flowers are considered ornamental plants because of the exotic beauty of their flowers and variant foliage. Since their introduction to the Old World, around 1625, seventeenth century, they have been used to decorate European glasshouses and gardens. Interspecific hybridization is used to produce single ornamental plants. However in some countries, such as Brazil, being centre of origin of many species, the potential value of these species has hardly been exploited. The beauty of these wild species and their hybrids is little known in Brazil. Therefore it is here intended to highlight the productive and commercial potential of the passion flowers for the purpose to generate an income in family agriculture, while maintaining the ecological balance and optimizing the use of natural resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A total of 85 wild plants were collected in different areas of southern and south-eastern Brazil, and studied for nrDNA internal transcribed spacers (ITS). Thirty-two of them were also investigated for two other nuclear ( G3pdh and LEAFY), as well as eight plastid systems. Sixty-one ITS sequence types were identified, in a region of 412 bp, whereas 42 G3pdh haplotypes were found in a region of 1010 bp, and 23 LEAFY haplotypes in a region of 565 bp. GC content was higher in ITS (65%) than in the two other nuclear regions (40–42%), whereas nucleotide diversity was markedly higher in G3pdh than in the other two. No variability was found in the plastid systems. Most of the nuclear molecular diversity (56–86%) occurs at the intrapopulation level, and there is clear evidence of population expansion and little geographical structure. Historical information and field studies indicate that Passiflora alata is actively colonizing previously unoccupied areas in southern Brazil. High indices of intrapopulation variability were found in the region that is being colonized, similar to those found in areas where P. alata is native. Multiple introductions, as well the species’ genetic structure and human interference, may explain these findings. © 2006 The Linnean Society of London, Biological Journal of the Linnean Society, 2006, 88, 611–630. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Copyright of Brazilian Journal of Biology is the property of Instituto Internacional de Ecologia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

During the spring of 2001, approximately 10 000 yellow passion flower plants, from two orchards in the county of Livramento de Nossa Senhora, Bahia State, Brazil, exhibited intense yellow mosaic symptoms and drastic reduction of the leaf lamina and plant development. A large population of whiteflies ( Bemisia tabaci) was also found colonizing the plants. All field samples collected tested positive for Passion fruit woodiness virus in DAS-ELISA. Five out of 20 passion flower plants inoculated with adult whiteflies collected from diseased plants in the field developed symptoms 20–30 days after inoculation. Two of these plants gave a positive reaction in TAS-ELISA using antiserum against a begomovirus. Degenerated PCR primers amplified viral DNA fragments from the DNA-A and DNA-B components of a begomovirus infecting these plants. The fragment corresponding to the core region of the coat protein (DNA-A) was cloned and sequenced. A phylogenetic analysis placed this begomovirus isolated from passion flower in the same clade of the New World begomoviruses as several other species from Brazil. Based on the symptoms induced by this virus alone, the disease was tentatively named passion flower little leaf mosaic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Symptoms of Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) on yellow passion flower (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa ) are characterized by bright yellow mottling on leaves, starting at random points on the vine and diminishing in intensity towards the tip, which becomes symptomless as it grows. To determine whether symptomless portions of vines are CMV-free or represent latent infection, leaves with and without symptoms were collected from infected vines in the field. Biological, serological (plate-trapped antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, PTA-ELISA), Western blot and dot-blot hybridization assays showed that portions of the vines without symptoms were CMV-free. Vegetatively propagated vines with symptoms showed remission of symptoms on newly developed leaves. One year later, no CMV was detected in the upper leaves of these plants. Mechanically inoculated passion flower seedlings behaved similarly; symptoms were shown by few leaves after inoculation. Afterwards, plants became symptomless and CMV was not detected in the upper leaves or root system, 40 or 85 days after inoculation. The mechanism responsible for remission of symptoms accompanied by CMV disappearance is not known. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]