Complete genome sequences and properties of Spartina mottle virus isolates from hybrid Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon × Cynodon transvaalensis)

Full genome sequences are presented for two isolates of Spartina mottle virus (SpMoV) from two accessions of the hybrid turf grass Cynodon dactylon × C. transvaalensis (Bermuda grass, green couch), originally from the USA but detected during post-entry quarantine in Australia. Both isolates had a genome of 9,346 nucleotides, encoding a single polyprotein of 3,029 amino acids and predicted to be cleaved into 10 mature proteins. Phylogenetic analysis strongly supported placement in a new genus within the family Potyviridae. The isolates possess 715–780 × 11–12 nm flexuous virions and produce cylindrical (pinwheel) inclusions in infected cells. They were mechanically transmitted to several species in the Poaceae including Zea mays (maize, sweet corn), Chloris gayana (Rhodes grass), and Echinochloa colona (awnless barnyard grass).