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What does intermingling patches of green and yellow on a leaf indicate?

  1. Chlorosis

  2. Mosaic

  3. Necrosis

  4. Wilting

The correct answer is: Mosaic

Intermingling patches of green and yellow on a leaf is indicative of a mosaic pattern. This condition often results from viral infections in plants, which disrupt the normal cellular structure and chlorophyll production. The presence of both green and yellow patches suggests that some cells are functioning normally while others are affected by the virus, leading to uneven chlorophyll distribution. This characteristic leaf pattern helps identify viral diseases, which are common in various crops and ornamental plants. Chlorosis typically refers to a uniform yellowing of leaves due to deficiencies in essential nutrients or other stressors, rather than the patchy coloration associated with mosaic disease. Necrosis involves the death of plant tissues, usually resulting in brown, dry areas rather than the mixed coloration observed in mosaic patterns. Wilting indicates a different issue related to water loss and does not present the green-yellow contrast seen in the mosaic. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurately diagnosing plant health issues.