The wheat diseases soil borne mosaic and barley yellow dwarf are caused by which pathogens?

Wheat diseases such as soil borne mosaic and barley yellow dwarf are indeed caused by viruses. These viral pathogens are known to significantly affect the growth and yield of wheat and barley crops. Soil borne mosaic virus affects wheat by causing mottling and stunting, leading to reduced grain quality and yield. Similarly, barley yellow dwarf virus affects barley and other cereal crops, leading to yellowing of leaves and stunted growth.

Viruses are unique infectious agents that require a host plant to replicate and spread, and their impact on crop health can be severe if not managed properly. This understanding is critical as it emphasizes the importance of implementing effective management practices, such as using resistant varieties and practicing crop rotation to minimize the presence and spread of these viral pathogens.

In contrast, bacteria, nematodes, and fungi typically cause different sets of diseases and symptoms in plants, making it clear why viruses are identified as the correct answer in this context.