which are subcellular compartments which increase the efficiency of this process. There, a dsRNA genome is synthesized from the ssRNA(+) and transcribed in order to obtain viral mRNAs as well as new ssRNAs. Afterwards, the capsid proteins are produced and the new viral particles are assembled. Finally, the virus is ready to move to a new cell by triggering the formation of tubular structures which mediate the movement of the virions . The short-distance (cell-to-cell) movement of the virus is achieved via plasmodesmata, while the long-distance one (within the plant) occurs via the phloem. Properties Genome CMV is a linear positive-sense, tripartite single-stranded RNA virus . Its genome size is 8.623 kb and it is divided among RNA1 (3357 bp), RNA2 (3050 bp), and RNA3 (2216 bp), all of which has a tRNA-like structure . These three RNAs encode five proteins, proteins 1a, 2a, 2b, movement protein (MP) and coat protein (CP). While proteins 1a and 2a are responsible for the replication of the virus, protein 2b is the host-silencing suppressor. The RNA is surrounded by a protein coat consisting of 32 copies of a single structural protein which form isometric particles. Virion This virus presents non-enveloped, icosahedral or bacilliform virions of 26-35 nm in diameter. The different RNAs are encapsidated in distinct particles, which results in a variety of virions . Environment CMV is naturally found in temperate areas, where aphids, one of its main vectors, are also found. Diagnosis The presence of this virus in a plant can be confirmed serologically (ELISA), molecularly (PCR), or by host range tests. Management Currently there is no chemical capable of removing this virus from an infected plant, and therefore the best control is through prevention of the infection and eradication. To achieve this, it is crucial to remove weeds and diseased plants from the field, as well as use clean and sanitized tools. Other options are the use of resistant varieties, or planting so-called "trap crops". References Bibliography Other on-line Links about CMV for growers and gardeners Texas Plant Disease Handbook: Cucumber Mosaic Weekend Gardener: Cucumber mosaic virus Ohio Floriculture: Cucumber mosaic virus External links ICTVdB - The Universal Virus Database: Cucumber mosaic virus Family Groups - The Baltimore Method Plant Viruses Online – VIDE Database Descriptions of Plant Viruses Weekendgardner Monthly Web Magazine: Cucumber Mosaic Virus Crop Knowledge Master: Cucumber Mosaic Virus AVRDC - The World Vegetable Center Fact Sheet: