Chlorosis and necrosis are two major nutrient deficiency diseases observed in plants. They can also occur due to viral infections. Here, let’s learn more about the differences between chlorosis and necrosis in plants.
Table of Contents
Chlorosis
Chlorosis is a visible disease symptom shown by green plants. Here, the green parts of the plant turn yellow. It happens due to the degradation of chlorophyll pigment or interruption of pigment formation in the leaves. It is often observed as yellow patches or spots on the foliage.
Causes – One of the major reasons is the deficiency of nutrients. A lack of nutrients like iron, magnesium and manganese can lead to plant chlorosis. Magnesium and iron are an integral part of the chlorophyll structure. Also, poor soil quality, water drainage, high alkalinity, damaged roots and herbicide injury can add to the cause. It can be overcome by using proper fertilisers that supplement the plant’s needs.
Chlorosis can also be associated with viral and fungal infections.
Necrosis
Necrosis, on the other hand, refers to the death of plant cells; hence, necrosis is also known as cellular death. It is characterised by localised death in living tissues. It causes the leaves to dry out, and the colour of the leaf changes from brown to black. This results in brown or black dots on the leaves. Also, the leaf edges are the first to be affected by necrosis. Later, it grows to other areas as well.
It also changes the concentration of anthocyanin and other pigments, eventually leading to leaf bronzing.
Causes – Apart from nutrient deficiency, viral infections can also lead to necrosis. For example, the tobacco necrosis virus causes necrosis in tobacco plants. Likewise, the cymbidium mosaic virus often infects orchid flowers.
Symptoms – The nutrition deficient states show more than one symptom. Colour alterations (yellow or dark green) are observed in association with stunted development.
Furthermore, it is not feasible to reverse necrosis, while chlorosis can be reversed in situations of early detection.
See more:MCQs on Diseases Caused by Viruses
Difference between Chlorosis and Necrosis
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Chlorosis |
Necrosis |
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Chlorosis is a condition that happens when chlorophyll degrades |
Necrosis refers to the death or deterioration of plant tissue cells |
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The leaves decolourise and become light yellow in colour |
The leaves show rotting, spots, or blight symptoms |
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It results in characteristic yellow spots that give a mosaic pattern |
It results in characteristic brown spots and does not give a mosaic appearance |
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It is mainly caused by a lack of Mg, N, Fe, and Mn |
Cell necrosis is caused by a lack of Ca, Mg, Cu, and K |
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Chlorosis can be treated and reversed |
Necrosis cannot be reversed |
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