Plant viruses

Definition

Plant viruses are microscopic infectious agents that infect plants, causing various diseases and economic losses in agriculture. They consist of genetic material (DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein coat and rely on host machinery for replication.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Plant viruses can be transmitted through insect vectors, mechanical damage, seeds, and pollen.
2. Unlike animal viruses, plant viruses often spread cell-to-cell via plasmodesmata.
3. Most plant viruses have RNA genomes rather than DNA genomes.
4. Symptoms of plant virus infection include mosaic patterns on leaves, stunted growth, and yellowing.
5. Management strategies for plant viruses include the use of resistant plant varieties and control of vector populations.

Review Questions

• How do plant viruses typically spread from one plant to another?
• What are common symptoms seen in plants infected with viruses?
• Why is it challenging to develop treatments for viral infections in plants?

Related terms

Insect Vectors: Insects that transmit pathogens such as plant viruses from one host to another.

Plasmodesmata: Microscopic channels that connect the cells of plants, allowing transport of substances.

RNA Genome: The genetic material of most plant viruses consisting of ribonucleic acid.