Satellite Tobacco Necrosis Virus (STNV) is a plant virus belonging to the genus Alphanecrovirus and the family Tombusviridae. It is a small, single-stranded RNA virus that infects plants, particularly members of the family Solanaceae, including tomatoes, tobacco, and peppers.
STNV is named "satellite" because it depends on the presence of another virus, Tobacco Necrosis Virus (TNV), to replicate and move within plants. It cannot infect plants on its own and is therefore considered a satellite virus. STNV is transmitted through mechanical means, such as through contact with infected plant material or by insect vectors. It has a wide host range, and infections can lead to severe necrotic symptoms in susceptible plants.
The symptoms of STNV infection include elongated chlorotic lesions along the veins of leaves, followed by the development of necrotic (dead) tissue. These symptoms can lead to plant stunting, reduced yield, and even plant death. STNV infection can also lead to reduced fruit quality and deformities. Control measures for STNV mainly involve the use of virus-free planting material, proper sanitation practices, and insect vector management.
In summary, Satellites Tobacco Necrosis Virus (STNV) is a plant virus that relies on another virus, Tobacco Necrosis Virus, for replication and movement within plants. It causes necrotic symptoms in various plants, particularly those in the Solanaceae family. Proper disease management practices, such as using healthy planting material and controlling insect vectors, are essential for preventing and managing STNV infections.
