Abstract

Fifteen varieties or combinations of citrus (lime, grapefruit, lemons, oranges, mandarin and hybrids) were characterized in the forest zone of Cameroon. Characterization was carried out based on the behaviour of these citrus varieties against citrus tristeza virus (CTV). Foliar and cortical symptoms were evaluated. Six years old plants did not show any immune reaction against the disease. Unusual mild symptoms were observed in varieties normally tolerant to the disease, which constitute an indicator of the presence of a virulent viral complex. Satsuma mandarin, Lisbon lemon, Eureka lemon and in some aspects Tahiti lime showed a satisfactory behaviour for their vigour and reaction against CTV.

Key words: Tristeza, citrus, symptom, vigour.