What are symptoms of viral infection in plants?

Viral infections in plants commonly manifest through specific symptoms, which include mottled or puckered leaves and distorted fruit. These symptoms are indicative of the plant's response to the viral pathogen. When a virus infects a plant, it interferes with normal cellular functions, leading to abnormal growth patterns.

Mottling refers to the irregular, patchy coloration often seen on leaves, which can range from light to dark green or even yellow. Puckering, on the other hand, occurs when the leaf tissues grow unevenly, causing the leaves to appear crumpled or curled. Distorted fruit can also result from viral infections as they disrupt the normal developmental processes of flowering and fruit set, leading to abnormal shapes, sizes, or even incomplete growth.

Other options are not characteristic of viral infections; for instance, wilting and drooping leaves may indicate a range of issues, including water stress or root problems, while yellowing of the soil suggests nutrient deficiencies or soil health issues rather than viral presence. Brown spots on roots might be associated with root rot or fungal infections but do not pertain to viral infection. Thus, understanding these specific symptoms can help in diagnosing and managing plant health effectively.