Sobemoviruses

Definition

Sobemoviruses are a group of single-stranded RNA viruses that primarily infect plants, causing significant agricultural damage. They are known for their small genome size and ability to be transmitted by insect vectors.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sobemoviruses have single-stranded RNA genomes.
2. They primarily infect plants, leading to various plant diseases.
3. These viruses are named after Southern bean mosaic virus, one of the first discovered members.
4. Transmission often occurs through insect vectors such as beetles and aphids.
5. Their small genome size typically ranges from 4 to 5.6 kilobases.

Review Questions

• What type of genetic material do Sobemoviruses possess?
• How are Sobemoviruses typically transmitted?
• What is the significance of the name 'Sobemovirus'?

Related terms

Viroids: Small, circular RNA molecules that infect plants and do not encode proteins.

Virusoids: Circular RNAs that depend on helper viruses for replication and encapsidation.

Prions: Infectious proteins that cause neurodegenerative diseases by inducing abnormal folding of specific normal cellular proteins found in the brain.