Betanecroviruses

Betanecroviruses are a genus of viruses within the family Nudiviridae. These viruses primarily infect arthropods, with certain species being significant pathogens of beneficial insects such as bees. The name "betanecrovirus" reflects their nature; "beta" indicating a second or subsequent discovery within the family, and "necro" referring to the characteristic necrotic symptoms often observed in infected hosts.

Morphologically, betanecroviruses are characterized by their rod-shaped virions, which are enveloped. Their genome consists of double-stranded DNA. Replication of betanecroviruses occurs within the nucleus of host cells. The infection cycle typically leads to the lysis of host cells, contributing to the observed disease symptoms.

Betanecroviruses are known to cause significant damage to insect populations, particularly in agricultural settings. For instance, certain betanecroviruses have been implicated in colony losses in honeybees, posing a threat to pollination services and beekeeping industries. Research into betanecroviruses is ongoing to understand their transmission, pathogenicity, and to develop strategies for managing their impact on insect health and biodiversity. Their study is crucial for both entomology and virology.