Damage usually ranges from noticeable yield reductions to crop failures. Tips Host Crops Wheat streak mosaic virus attacks barley, corn and some grasses, but is most common on winter and spring wheat. Oats and rye may be infected but they do not appear to be seriously damaged.
Wheat is the only cereal that is seriously affected.
Biology Wheat streak mosaic is a viral disease of wheat. The virus enters the leaves and spreads to all parts of the plant. Infected plants are usually stunted and produce fewer seeds, which are often badly shrivelled. The earlier the infection, the greater the effect on the plant. Wheat streak mosaic virus is transmitted by the wheat curl mite and by leaf rubbing.