What type of pathogen causes maize dwarf mosaic virus?

Maize dwarf mosaic virus is caused by a virus, which is the correct identification of the pathogen. Viruses are unique infectious agents that require a living host to replicate and typically contain genetic material (either DNA or RNA) enclosed in a protein coat. In the case of maize dwarf mosaic virus, it can significantly affect corn crops, leading to symptoms such as stunted growth, mottled or streaked leaves, and reduced yield.

Understanding the nature of the pathogen is crucial for implementing effective management strategies. In contrast, bacteria are single-celled organisms that can cause various plant diseases through different mechanisms, fungi are typically multicellular organisms involved in decomposition and can also cause diseases, and nematodes are parasitic worms that affect plants by feeding on roots, but none of these are responsible for the specific disease caused by maize dwarf mosaic virus.