Tobamoviruses possess a high capacity for transmission, posing persistent and serious challenges to cucurbit production and international seed trade (Fig. 1). With the increasing risk of seed-borne viruses in cucurbit crops, countries worldwide have strengthened seed testing technologies, developed rapid diagnostic methods, and implemented field sanitation practices to ensure the safety of crop production and the movement of seeds and planting materials. To align with international standards, this study has progressively established molecular detection methods for seed-borne cucurbit Tobamoviruses, including Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV), with the aim of reducing the risks of cross-border and field transmission and enhancing the production resilience and international competitiveness of Taiwan’s seedling industry.

1. Compilation of international literature and quarantine regulations on major cucurbit Tobamoviruses
   Relevant international literature, including epidemiological information and international quarantine regulations, was collected for major cucurbit Tobamoviruses. A virus database was established for Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV), Kyuri green mottle mosaic virus (KGMMV), and Zucchini green mottle mosaic virus (ZGMMV).
2. Procurement of ELISA reagents and reference materials
   Antibodies and positive and negative control reference materials required for ELISA detection of the three viruses were identified and procured. Subsequent work will focus on establishing and validating the ELISA detection methods.
3. Selection and synthesis of virus-specific primers and establishment of RT-PCR conditions
   Virus-specific primer pairs for the three viruses were identified based on relevant international publications and synthesized. Subsequent work will include primer evaluation and optimization of RT-PCR conditions.

▲Figure 1. Globally distributed seed-borne viruses of the genus Tobamovirus infecting cucurbit crops.