nudiviruses

Nudiviruses are a family of large, enveloped double-stranded DNA viruses that infect arthropods, particularly insects such as caterpillars and beetles, as well as crustaceans. They are characterized by relatively large genomes and complex virions compared with many other insect viruses.

Virions are enveloped and typically elongated or bacilliform in shape. The genomes are linear dsDNA of roughly 100–200 kilobases, encoding dozens of core genes involved in DNA replication, transcription, and virion assembly, alongside many lineage-specific genes.

Life cycle: Infection begins after entry into host cells, replication occurs primarily in the nucleus, followed by assembly of nucleocapsids and virions. Transmission is mainly horizontal, occurring during close contact or feeding; vertical transmission has been reported in some host–virus systems. Some Nudiviridae infections contribute to insect population dynamics and have been explored as potential biocontrol agents.

Classification and context: Nudiviridae is a distinct family within the realm of double-stranded DNA viruses that infect invertebrates. The family comprises multiple genera, as defined by the ICTV, and continues to be studied for insights into virus evolution and host interactions.