Tobacco mosaic disease

Definition

Tobacco mosaic disease is a viral infection that affects plants, particularly tobacco and other members of the Solanaceae family. It is caused by the Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV), which leads to characteristic mottling and discoloration of leaves.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) was the first virus ever discovered.
2. TMV has a rod-shaped morphology and its genome is composed of single-stranded RNA.
3. The virus spreads through direct contact between plants or via contaminated tools.
4. Symptoms of tobacco mosaic disease include mosaic-like patterns on leaves, stunted growth, and leaf curling.
5. TMV is highly stable and can remain infectious in plant debris for years.

Review Questions

• What type of genetic material does the Tobacco mosaic virus contain?
• How does TMV primarily spread among plants?
• What are some common symptoms observed in plants infected with TMV?

Related terms

Virus: A microscopic infectious agent capable of replicating only inside living cells, often causing disease.

Single-stranded RNA Virus: A type of virus that has RNA as its genetic material, with a single-stranded configuration.

Host Range: The spectrum of host species that a pathogen can infect.