Detection of Tobacco streak virus isolates in North American Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait.)

In tests on nine cranberry cultivars imported into Scotland from the USA, two cultivars, Pilgrim and AJ, were found infected with Tobacco streak virus (TSV). Three distinct isolates of this virus were detected in this infected material and were distinguished by their infection of, and reactions in, different herbaceous test plants. This is the first report of natural infection with TSV in Vaccinium species and the first characterised virus reported in cranberry. As TSV is seed and pollen transmitted in many hosts, care should be taken to test plants before propagation or when using as parents in plant breeding programs. Accepted for publication 9 July 2001. Published 17 July 2001.