Ascoviridae

Ascoviridae is a family of enveloped, double-stranded DNA viruses. These viruses infect arthropods, specifically insects. The genome of ascoviruses is linear and segmented, with each segment enclosed in its own viral envelope. The family name is derived from "Ascovirus," the type genus, which itself comes from "ascarian," meaning "worm-like," referring to the virions' filamentous appearance.

Ascoviruses are characterized by their large genome size and the presence of multiple viral genes, some of which are involved in DNA replication and repair. Their replication cycle is complex and occurs within the nucleus of host insect cells. A distinctive feature of ascoviruses is their ability to persist in the environment for extended periods, often within the cadavers of infected insects.

The transmission of ascoviruses typically occurs through ingestion of contaminated material. They are known to cause latent infections in their host larvae, which can become activated later in the insect's life cycle, leading to mortality. While not known to infect humans or vertebrates, ascoviruses are of interest for their potential use as biocontrol agents against insect pests due to their specificity and pathogenicity towards certain insect species. Research into their molecular biology and replication mechanisms is ongoing.