cDNA clones specific for the two genomic RNAs of strain O of the comovirus red clover mottle virus (RCMV) were constructed. Using these clones, in conjunction with clones specific for RNAs of RCMV strain S, local lesion isolates containing reciprocal pseudo-recombinants between strains S and O were identified. Investigation of the biological properties of these pseudo-recombinants showed that the ability of RCMV to infect Chenopodium quinoa is determined by B RNA. The results also suggest that both RNAs are involved in symptom formation in Pisum sativum.