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Did you know how this plant virus spreads silently from plant to plant?
In plant pathology, Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) is one of the most representative plant pathogenic viruses in the world. This virus belongs to the Bromoviridae family and is known for its broad host range, estimated to infect more than 1,200 plant species, including many important crop and ornamental plants. As CMV spreads widely, this makes it an important factor in economic losses in plant production.
Host and symptoms
CMV was first described in cucumber in 1934, showing mosaic symptoms. Over time, scientists discovered that it can also infect a variety of other vegetables, such as pumpkins, watermelons, peppers, eggplants, tomatoes, beans, carrots, celery, lettuce, and spinach. In addition, the presence of CMV has been confirmed on all continents around the world, including Antarctica.
CMV usually produces mosaic or mottled symptoms on plant leaves, and can cause yellowing, ring spots, stunting, and deformation of leaves, flowers, and fruits.
Specific symptoms will vary from plant to plant. For example, when cucumbers are infected with CMV, they often have a pale, rough appearance, inhibited growth, and few flowers. These cucumbers are often called "white sour cucumbers." In tomatoes, CMV infection can cause dwarfing of plants and deformation of leaves, which is called the "fern leaf" effect. In addition, peppers will suffer severe leaf damage under the influence of CMV, forming zebra patterns and necrotic rings.
Methods of transmission
CMV is mainly transmitted through aphids, which is a non-sustained and non-cyclic mode of transmission. Aphids can carry the virus as they move from plant to plant, making the spread of CMV relatively rapid. Viral acquisition time is typically five to ten seconds, while inoculation time is about one minute. Subsequently, the likelihood of transmission gradually decreases over time.
Virus life cycle
CMV can overwinter in perennial plants and weeds and awaken in the spring to be transmitted to other plants by aphids. When a virus enters a host cell, it releases RNA and begins replicating. During this process, the virus takes over the host's cellular structures and uses the host's resources to create new viral particles.
The short-distance movement of CMV within plants is achieved through the plasmodesmata, while the long-distance movement is carried out through the phloem.
Virus characteristics
CMV is a three-part virus based on single-stranded RNA. The total genome size is 8.623 kb and consists of three RNAs. Virus particles are non-enveloped, icosahedral or spindle-shaped, with diameters ranging from 26 to 35 nanometers. The virus mutates rapidly in its host, making treatment difficult.
Environment and Diagnostics
CMV usually grows in temperate and tropical areas, especially where aphids are present. When plants are infected with CMV, characteristic physical manifestations usually occur, such as green or yellow mottled leaves, plant growth inhibition, and changes in fruit quality.
The presence of CMV can be confirmed by serological testing, molecular biology testing, or host range testing.
Management methods
There are currently no effective chemical drugs that can completely eliminate CMV, so preventing and controlling transmission is considered the best strategy. This includes removing weeds and diseased plants to keep fields sanitary. Additionally, the risk of virus transmission can be reduced by selecting resistant varieties or using specific intercropping systems.
With climate change and changing agricultural practices, the spread of CMV and other plant viruses appears to be increasing. Should we rethink our relationship with plants and nature and find new ways to protect our crops and ecosystems?
