Identification of Viruses from Maize and Grass Hosts

Abstract

Survey of viruses infecting maize and grasses was conducted in western, central and southern parts of Ethiopia during the 1994/1995 season. Viruses were detected by serological tests, ELISA and electron microscopy. Maize Streak Virus was detected in most of the maize samples collected. Sugar Cane Mosaic Virus, Maize Dwarf Mosaic Virus, Johnson Grass Mosaic Virus? and Maize Mottle Chlorotic Stunt Virus were detected in some samples. This is the first report of the presence of the latter three viruses in the country. Some viruses were also detected in five grass species: Digitaria sp, Eluesine sp, Panicum sp, Pennisetum sp and Rottboettia sp. Further studies indicated that these grasses are overwintering hosts for maize viruses and/or their vectors.