Lentil – Viral Diseases
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CAUSED BY
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- Several viruses attack lentil, including Pea Seed-Borne Mosaic Virus (PSbMV) which affects both Field Peas and Lentils; Lentil Seed-Borne Mosaic, Alfalfa Mosaic, Bean Yellow Mosaic, Cumber Mosaic and Pea Leaf Roll Virus.
- Lentil Seed-Borne Mosaic Virus is a potential threat to lentils, as it may be introduced with infected lentil seed and spread by aphids.
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SYMPTOMS
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- May include downward curling of leaflets on seedlings, leaf mosaic, rosetting (developing rose-like markings), shortening of internodes, chlorotic flecks or translucent lesions, upward curling of leaves, pod distortion and stunting.
- Tissue proliferation may occur along leaf veins and on pods.
- Pod set may be affected in some cultivars or distorted pods may develop with seeds that have split seed coats.
- Some varieties may be infected and show no visible symptoms, but yield is reduced.
- Seed size and quality is often reduced.
- Delayed maturity may also occur.
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PREVENTION AND CONTROL
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- Use of resistant varieties and virus-free seed.
- Control of aphid populations has not proven a reliable control method.
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IMPACT
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- Damage is rarely serious in Western Canada because of severe winters and a relatively short growing season.
- Can result in delayed maturity as well as reductions in yield, seed size, and seed quality.
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Resources
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Special thanks to Saskatchewan Pulse Growers.
