A tobamovirus is a group of plant viruses that belong to the Tobamoviridae family. It is a large family of rod-shaped, non-enveloped viruses that infect various plant species, causing significant damage to crop plants worldwide.
Tobamoviruses are characterized by their single-stranded positive-sense RNA genomes, which contain approximately 6-8.3 kilobases. The name "tobamovirus" is derived from tobacco mosaic virus (TMV), one of the most well-known members of this family.
These viruses are highly resistant and can remain infectious for long periods, even in extreme environmental conditions. They are primarily transmitted through mechanical means, such as direct contact between infected and healthy plants, or via contaminated tools, soil, or human activities. Additionally, some species of tobamoviruses can be transmitted by insects, nematodes, or even through seeds.
Tobamoviruses primarily infect the chlorenchyma or mesophyll cells of plants, causing localized necrotic lesions, chlorosis, stunted growth, and reduced crop yield. They interfere with the normal physiological processes of plants, disrupting photosynthesis, nutrient uptake, and hormone regulation.
The economic impact of tobamovirus infections can be significant, as they affect a wide range of economically important crops, including tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, tobacco, and many ornamental plants. Control measures for tobamovirus infections typically involve strict quarantine measures, the use of virus-free seeds or seedlings, and crop rotation strategies. Additionally, resistant plant cultivars have been developed to mitigate the effects of tobamovirus infections.
