viroid

Viroid:A viroid is a plant pathogenic RNA molecule that is similar to a virus, but lacks a protein coat. These small, single-stranded RNA molecules can cause disease in plants, but are not known to infect animals or humans. Viroid infections are often asymptomatic, meaning they do not show any visible symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they can be devastating to the plant, leading to stunted growth, deformities, and even death. Viroid diseases are difficult to control and there is no cure once a plant is infected.