Stylet-borne virus

Pronunciation: /STAHY-let-born vahy-ruhs/

Category: Transmission

Singular: Stylet-borne virus

Plural: Stylet-borne viruses

Definition

A type of plant virus that is transmitted by insects with piercing-sucking mouthparts, such as aphids. The virus is not retained within the insect vector and is transmitted in a non-persistent manner.

Etymology

From the Latin 'stylus', meaning 'needle', and 'borne', meaning 'carried'.

Example

Aphids are important vectors of stylet-borne viruses, such as potato virus Y.

Related Terms

Aphid
Vector
Non-persistent transmission

Usage Notes

Stylet-borne viruses typically infect plants through the aphid's stylet during feeding.