Its principal host is
papaya (
Carica papaya), although in host range studies, PapMV was able to infect a few other plants including snapdragons (
Antirrhinum majus). It is also reported to naturally infect
Ullucus tuberosus. PapMV was first reported in papaya in 1962 together with another virus that became known as
Papaya ringspot virus (PRSV), a
potyvirus. The two viruses were differentiated in 1965 and 1967 using particle lengths, serology, host range, inclusions, and aphid transmissibility. PapMV causes mild mosaic symptoms on papaya leaves and stunting of the plant. It is known to occur in South America (Bolivia, Peru, and Venezuela) and the USA. ==See also==