TMV (tobacco mosaic virus) can cause plants to produce less chlorophyll. This causes leaf discoloration. Explain why plants with TMV have stunted growth.

The virus is causing less chlorophyll to be produced. This is a problem as chlorophyll is an essential component in photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is a process by which plants are able to use sunlight in the production of glucose. Glucose is an essential molecule for energy production, and therefore the plant will not grow due to a lack of energy. As well as this, glucose is used in the production of proteins used in growth. In summary, the virus interrupts photosynthesis, which leads to a reduction in glucose availability and subsequent stunting of growth.

RS
Answered by Reece S. Biology tutor

11853 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain how eutrophication can result in low oxygen levels in the water in the stream.


What happes in mitosis?


Describe how information passes across a synapse


Explain how a nervous impulse is transmitted across a synapse?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning