Description
A virus with RNA-containing isometric particles about 30 nm in diameter which sediment as a single component. It has a wide host range, is transmitted mechanically and by beetles, and is known only from Nigeria. Causes mottling or bright yellow mosaic in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata). Leaves are distorted, reduced in size and a witches' broom syndrome is common. Yields may be reduced by more than 75%. Field-grown plants are often also infected with cowpea mosaic or southern bean mosaic viruses. In naturally infected Bambarra groundnut (Voandzeia subterranea) disease symptoms include green mottle, stunting, and shortening of petioles.
Cowpea severe mosaic virus infects legumes crops such as cowpea, bean and soybean, and causes severe mosaic on infected plant leaves