Characterization of the virome of the algarrobo, Neltuma pallida (Fabaceae), using nanopore sequencing
Algarrobo, Neltuma pallida, is a keystone species of the Equatorial dry forests. In recent years, algarrobos face unprecedented decline rates due to an unknown disease, impacting the ecosystem stability and local communities. Despite their urgent conservation need, few efforts have been undertaken to understand algarrobos' decline and possible biotic factors need to be studied. In this study, we characterized the virome of diseased individuals using RNA from leaflets, cDNA synthesis using random primers, and sequencing using a ONT sequencing platform. Sequening reads were clustered and classified to identify traces from different phytopathogenic viral families, some likely transferred from farmlands nearby. Results provide tools for evaluating fragile ecosystems, and managing and conserving genetic resources.