Epidemiology of Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV) in Commercial Greenhouses

The tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) poses a considerable threat to tomato production worldwide. Substantial experimental evidence supports the role of infected seeds as a contamination route, but the epidemiologic portrait of the virus has received less attention. This study reports the first survey of ToBRFV prevalence in commercial greenhouses. The aim was to examine the distribution of the virus in relation to greenhouse size and management practices in Québec (Canada). Plant samples collected at three production stages in 31 commercial greenhouses were subjected to ToBRFV detection and genome sequencing. The virus was detected in seven commercial greenhouses (11 positive samples out of 311 analyzed). Retrieved partial genome sequences formed a cluster with ToBRFV variants from Canada and Mexico, suggesting cross-border propagation through commercial trades. There was no link between greenhouse features and ToBRFV diagnosis, indicating that no specific profile is more susceptible to infection than others.