Distribution and incidence of Carrot virus Y in Australia

In 2000-2002, Carrot virus Y (CarVY) was found infecting carrot crops in six Australian states. Its occurrence was greater where carrot production was continuous (New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria and Western Australia), than where production was restricted mostly to the summer (Tasmania) or winter (Queensland) months. The percentages of farms and crops infected, respectively, were New South Wales (71%, 56%), Queensland (5%, 4%), South Australia (56%, 56%), Tasmania (4%, 4%), Victoria (93%, 74%) and Western Australia (28%, 19%). Infection was detected in 30 of 36 carrot cultivars. Possible explanations for the widespread distribution and incidence of CarVY in Australian carrots are discussed.