Distribution and molecular characterization of the viruses SCYLV, SCMV in Saccharum sp. and PRSV-P in Carica papaya in Cuba

Among the most important diseases in Saccharum spp., sugarcane yellow leaf virus (SCYLV) and sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV) stand out. In Carica papaya L., papaya ringspot virus (PRSV-P) causes one of the most destructive diseases. The objective of this research was to determine the distribution in Cuba of these viruses and their molecular characterization. Prospecting and molecular diagnosis were carried out by RT-PCR. In the case of SCMV, direct sequencing was performed. Phylodynamic analyzes were performed with 34 sequences from Cuban PRSV-P isolates and 107 sequences from isolates from the American continent and Caribbean islands. SCYLV and PRSV-P are widely distributed in Cuba. From SCYLV the existence of the races BRA-PER, CUB and REU was reported, and from SCMV a single race. The Cuban isolates of PRSV-P and from the American continent and Caribbean islands showed a common ancestor. SCYLV and PRSV-P constitute a potential hazard to farmers.