Section outline
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PrLBaV is a member of the genus Idaeovirus (family Mayoviridae), a group of positive single-stranded (+ssRNA) viruses with a bipartite genome encapsidated in icosahedral virus particles (Navarro et al. 2017). RNA1 contains a single open reading frame encoding a polyprotein with characteristic motifs of viral RNA methyltransferase, helicase and polymerase. The RNA2 is bi-cistronic encoding a putative movement protein and the viral coat protein, which is likely expressed through a subgenomic RNA. Further investigation is needed into the distribution and host range of PrLBaV, as no systematic surveys have been carried out for instance in tree species of the family Oleaceae, which includes susceptible hosts as ash and privet. Additionally, the modes of virus transmission in both natural and managed habitats need to be investigated. Our studies confirmed that some PrLBaV-infected Fraxinus spp. including the “aucubaefoliae” varieties of red ash show prominent leaf symptoms. It is uncovered that these trees are also infected by a putative novel cytorhabdovirus. However, weather both viruses are necessary to cause the ornamental leaf patterns associated with “golden flecking” needs further investigations in the future.