Abstract
A single-component, 30 nm diameter isometric, plant virus with 20% RNA, S20,w = 122 and protein subunit MW of 44,500 daltons was isolated from Nigerian cowpeas [Vigna unguiculata]. These properties are distinct from any previously described virus. Based on host range, geographic distribution of isolates and distinctive serological properties, the virus was considered to be the cowpea mottle virus, which was previously described in terms of its biological properties. The virus was transmitted in the seed of all varieties of cowpeas tested and by the beetle Ootheca mutabilis, in which it was retained for 5 days. The virus infects many species of Leguminosae, Chenopodiaceae and Solanaceae and apparently is confined to Nigeria.

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