Viruses of ornamentals emerging in Florida and the Caribbean region

Historically, Tomato spotted wilt virus and Impatiens necrotic spot virus have been significant constraints to crop production worldwide. With the emergence of Tomato chlorotic spot virus (TCSV) and a natural Groundnut ringspot virus (GRSV) reassortant in Florida and the Caribbean region, the significance of tospoviruses in production of major solanaceous vegetables including tomato and pepper has increased. In addition, TCSV has been reported in common solanaceous weeds including American black nightshade (Solanum americanum) and jimsonweed (Datura stramonium), in Florida and/or Puerto Rico. Experimental host range studies demonstrated that TCSV and/or GRSV can also infect solanaceous (Petunia and Brugmansia) and non-solanaceous (Garden Impatiens) ornamentals. During 2014, the first natural TCSV infections of non-solanaceous ornamentals porcelainflower (Hoya wayetii), false Christmas cactus (Schlumbergera truncata) and annual vinca (Catharanthus roseus) were detected in Florida. Since then, TCSV has been documented in other important crop and weed species, indicating host and geographic range expansion of this tospovirus. Several other viruses have also been detected in plants with symptoms similar to those induced by TCSV. In view of projected climate change-driven shifts in cropping systems, further knowledge of emerging plant viruses in Florida and the Caribbean region will help strengthen agricultural security.