Population Genetic Structure of Citrus Tatter Leaf Virus in Zhejiang Province, China

TL;DR

This study explores the genetic diversity and population structure of Citrus Tatter Leaf Virus in Zhejiang Province, China, revealing regional and host-specific patterns of evolution.

Contribution

The study presents the largest regional dataset of CTLV CP gene sequences and identifies localized evolutionary patterns and selection pressures.

Findings

Zhejiang CTLV isolates show substantial genetic diversity and form multiple clades aligned with global structures.

Geographic and host-specific factors drive genetic differentiation among CTLV isolates in the region.

Most CP sites are under purifying selection, but some clade-specific codons show signs of positive selection.

Abstract

Citrus tatter leaf virus (CTLV), a major pathogen threatening global citrus production, remains poorly characterized in terms of its regional genetic diversity and evolutionary dynamics. To address this gap, we conducted a comprehensive population genetic analysis of CTLV in Zhejiang Province, China, using 181 coat protein (CP) gene sequences—the largest regional CTLV dataset to date. Our analyses uncovered substantial genetic diversity among Zhejiang CTLV isolates. Phylogenetic reconstructions revealed that these isolates span multiple clades, closely aligning with global CTLV population structures, indicative of recurrent viral introductions and extensive regional circulation. Population structure analyses revealed significant genetic differentiation driven by geography, with Jinhua isolates forming a distinct cluster, and by host species, with Citrus reticulata ‘Criton’ isolates diverging from those in other citrus varieties. Selection pressure analysis indicated that while most CP polymorphic sites were under purifying selection, several clade-specific codons showed signatures of positive selection. These results offer new insights into CTLV’s population structure and localized evolutionary trajectories, enhancing our understanding of its regional adaptation and informing strategies for disease management and control of this globally significant pathogen.

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