بررسی مولکولی رابطه ویروس موزائیک انجیر (FMV) و کنه ناقل آن (Acari: Eriophyidae) Aceria ficus

Fig mosaic virus (FMV) is a significant threat to fig trees in Iran, particularly in the Fars province. This virus is naturally spread by the eriophyid mite Aceria ficus. Our research delves into various aspects of this virus and its mite vector. To detect the presence of FMV in plants and vectors, we utilized the E5 primer for the RNA in RT-PCR testing. We designed a specialized real-time primer with a band length of 130 bp from the Kt732024 gene region to explore the relationship between the vector and the mite. The results of the real-time test revealed that the virus could be transmitted to a healthy plant in 12 hours of vector feeding. Interestingly, our studies showed that the virus is not passed down to the next generation through eggs. Instead, it boosts the egg-laying rate and lifespan of the vector, ultimately increasing the mite population. The viruliferous vector had a fecundity of 19.31 egg/individual female, while the non-viruliferous female mite laid 13.07 egg/individual. The lifespan of a non-viruliferous mite was 12.12 days, compared to 14.23 days for a vector mite. Given the economic significance of fig cultivation in Iran, understanding the molecular relationship between the virus and its vector is crucial. This knowledge can help implement preventive measures, reduce the use of pesticides, protect the environment, and effectively manage fig plantations to prevent economic losses.