ABSTRACT
Dasheen mosaic virus (DsMV), a Potyvirus, and a Potexvirus (herein tentatively named Caladium virus X, CalVX) were found naturally infecting Caladium bicolor (Araceae) with chlorotic and necrotic spots and rings. Electron microscopy observations from infected leaves revealed cytoplasmic cylindrical inclusions, induced by DsMV, as well as masses of elongated particles and virus-like particles scattered in the cytoplasm. In Gomphrena globosa foliar cells experimentally infected by CalVX, electron-dense crystalline inclusions, without elongated particles, were also present in the cytoplasm and nucleus. Complex inclusions which consisted of a central, stained faint yellow area surrounded by groups of dense, olive-green stained, bodies were frequently observed in epidermal cells when stained with calcomine orange-luxol brilliant green combination. These inclusions correspond to a cytoplasm region rich in vesicles, ribosomes, scattered virus-like particles and large virus aggregates.
KEY WORDS: Caladium bicolor; Araceae; Potexvirus; cytopathic alterations; electron microscopy; light microscopy.