Cucumber mosaic virus

Definition

Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) is a widespread plant virus known for causing disease in a variety of plants, particularly cucumbers, and other members of the Cucurbitaceae family. This virus is significant as it highlights the complexity of virus infections and host interactions, showcasing how viruses can manipulate host cellular processes for replication and spread.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CMV is transmitted primarily through aphids, which feed on infected plants and then move to healthy ones, spreading the virus.
2. Infected plants often show symptoms such as yellow mosaic patterns on leaves, stunted growth, and reduced fruit yield.
3. Cucumber mosaic virus can infect over 1,200 plant species, making it one of the most versatile plant viruses.
4. The genome of CMV is composed of single-stranded RNA, allowing it to replicate quickly within host cells.
5. Management strategies for CMV include using resistant plant varieties, controlling aphid populations, and practicing crop rotation.

Review Questions

• How does Cucumber mosaic virus utilize its host to replicate and spread within plant communities?
  • Cucumber mosaic virus exploits the host plant's cellular machinery to replicate its RNA genome and produce viral proteins. The virus manipulates the host's metabolic processes to facilitate its replication and assembly into new virions. Once assembled, the newly formed viruses can spread throughout the plant and to neighboring plants via vectors like aphids. This interaction demonstrates how viruses can effectively hijack host cellular functions for their own propagation.
• Discuss the implications of Cucumber mosaic virus's wide host range on agricultural practices.
  • The extensive host range of Cucumber mosaic virus poses significant challenges for agriculture because it affects many crops beyond cucumbers. This broad susceptibility means that managing CMV requires integrated pest management strategies that account for multiple plant species. Farmers must adopt practices such as using resistant cultivars and monitoring aphid populations closely to prevent outbreaks. The potential for widespread crop damage emphasizes the need for proactive measures in agricultural management to safeguard against CMV.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of current management strategies for Cucumber mosaic virus in preventing outbreaks in crops.
  • Current management strategies for Cucumber mosaic virus, such as planting resistant varieties and controlling aphid populations, have shown varying degrees of effectiveness. While resistant cultivars can significantly reduce disease incidence, they may not be available for all susceptible crops. Integrated pest management that combines biological controls with cultural practices is essential for reducing aphid populations and limiting viral spread. Continuous research into new resistance genes and effective control measures is vital to enhance our ability to manage CMV effectively in diverse agricultural settings.

Related terms

Plant Virus: A type of virus that infects plants, often causing symptoms such as yellowing, stunting, and mottling of leaves.

Viral Transmission: The process by which viruses are spread from one host to another, which can occur through various vectors, including insects.

Host Range: The range of plant species that can be infected by a particular virus, which varies based on the virus's genetic makeup and transmission methods.