Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus: The vector of this virus is a microscopic eight-legged, cigar-shaped, wheat curl mite, Aceria tulipae. This disease is more severe in the High Plains area of Texas. Although most severe infection occurs in the fall, the characteristic yellowish streaking and mottling of leaves usually are first observed after warmer spring weather. As plants approach maturity, the leaves turn brown and die. WSMV causes red streak on corn kernels. Control for this disease is possible by clean tillage around fields, early destruction of volunteer wheat, late planting after frost, and resistant varieties.