Key Viruses of Pulses in Australia: General Detection and Management Methods

Abstract

Pulse crops, including chickpeas, lentils, faba beans, field peas etc., are vital to Australia’s agricultural economy, supporting domestic consumption, exports, and sustainable farming through nitrogen fixation. However, viral diseases pose a significant threat, causing substantial yield losses and compromising crop quality. This concise review synthesizes current knowledge on major viruses affecting Australian pulse crops, such as alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV), bean yellow mosaic virus (BYMV), cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), pea seed-borne mosaic virus (PSbMV), turnip mosaic virus (TuMV) and other common viruses. It highlights their transmission modes (e.g., aphids, seeds, mechanical), characteristic symptoms (e.g., chlorosis, stunting, leaf deformation), and economic impacts. The review also outlines common detection methods, including serological (ELISA, LFIA) and molecular techniques (RT-PCR, LAMP, HTS), and integrated disease management strategies, such as virus-free seeds, vector control, crop rotation, and resistant cultivars. By consolidating these aspects, this review provides a small look into the viruses of pulse crops in Australia.