Wespivirus

Wespivirus is a genus of viruses in the order Mononegavirales and the family Rhabdoviridae. Viruses in this genus infect insects. The name "Wespivirus" is derived from "Wesp," the genus of wasps that served as the source for the type species, and "virus."

The genome of Wespivirus is a single-stranded, negative-sense RNA molecule. Like other rhabdoviruses, Wespivirus particles are typically bullet-shaped. Replication occurs in the cytoplasm of the host cell. The genus currently contains one species, the West Nile virus (WNV). However, West Nile virus is not a member of the Wespivirus genus, but rather a member of the genus *Vesiculovirus*. Wespivirus species are transmitted horizontally between insects. Their role in insect populations and potential impact on agriculture or public health is an area of ongoing research. The specific biological characteristics and host range of viruses within the Wespivirus genus are still being elucidated. Further studies are needed to fully understand their evolutionary relationships and ecological significance.