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Definition

noun, plural: tobacco mosaic viruses

A mosaic virus belonging to genus Tobamovirus that causes mottling and discoloration of leaves of an infected plant, especially tobacco and other members of the Solanaceae.

Supplement

Tobacco mosaic virus is an RNA virus and the first virus to be discovered. The virus causes a characteristic pattern on leaves of infected plant, hence the name, mosaic. The virus is infectious in plants but consumption of tobacco products infected with the virus does not cause harm on humans.

Abbreviation: TVM

See also: mosaic virus, mosaic disease