The potential of plant viruses to promote genotypic diversity via genotype x environment interactions.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

Genotype by environment (G × E) interactions are important for the long-term persistence of plant species in heterogeneous environments. It has often been suggested that disease is a key factor for the maintenance of genotypic diversity in plant populations. However, empirical evidence for this contention is scarce. Here virus infection is proposed as a possible candidate for maintaining genotypic diversity in their host plants.

Methods

The effects of White clover mosaic virus (WClMV) on the performance and development of different Trifolium repens genotypes were analysed and the G × E interactions were examined with respect to genotype-specific plant responses to WClMV infection. Thus, the environment is defined as the presence or absence of the virus.

SUBMITTER: van Molken T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3101144 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature