Satellite Tobacco Mosaic Virus (STMV) is a plant pathogenic virus that infects tobacco plants, causing serious damage to their growth and overall health. It belongs to the genus Satellite virus within the family Tombusviridae.
The virus gets its name from the mosaic-like pattern of discoloration that appears on the leaves of infected tobacco plants, leading to a reduced yield in crops. STMV itself is a subviral agent and cannot cause disease independently. Instead, it relies on a helper virus, such as Tobacco Mosaic Virus (TMV), to complete its life cycle. STMV requires TMV for replication and movement within the host plant, as it lacks the necessary genes to do so on its own.
The unique feature of STMV is its satellite-like nature, as it depends on another virus for function and reproduction. STMV consists of a small, circular, single-stranded RNA molecule and a protein coat. It is typically about one-tenth the size of the helper virus.
The presence of STMV can exacerbate the symptoms caused by the helper virus infection, leading to more severe disease symptoms and increased economic losses in tobacco cultivation. Additionally, the STMV can also act as a potential indicator or diagnostic tool for the detection of TMV infections in tobacco plants, aiding in disease control and management strategies.
Overall, Satellite Tobacco Mosaic Virus is a subviral pathogen that contributes to the harm caused by Tobacco Mosaic Virus, resulting in mosaic-like leaf discoloration and decreased yield in tobacco crops.
