Viruses and viroids infecting pears

Abstract

One of the most common fruit species in the world is the pears. Compared to stone and small fruit trees, pears and other pome fruits are infected by a lesser number of viruses and viroids. The majority of commercial pear cultivars do not exhibit symptoms on their leaves, fruits, or other plant parts due to viruses. Only foliage and fruits show symptoms in susceptible cultivars. Apple stem pitting virus (ASPV), apple stem grooving virus (ASGV), apple chlorotic leafspot virus (ACLSV), and apple mosaic virus (ApMV) are widespread and economically significant pear viruses. Pear blister canker viroid (PBCVd) and apple scar skin viroid (ASSVd) are the most dangerous viroids infecting pears.