Martellivirales

Bromoviridae virion

Martellivirales is an order of viruses in the realm Riboviria that infect archaea. The order belongs to the family Martelliviridae and includes three genera: Alphatrevirus, Betatrevirus, and Gammatrevirus.

Taxonomy

Martellivirales is classified under the realm Riboviria, group II viruses. It is the only order within the family Martelliviridae and is further divided into three genera: Alphatrevirus, Betatrevirus, and Gammatrevirus.

Structure and Genome

Martellivirales viruses are characterized by their unique morphology and genetic makeup. They possess a non-enveloped icosahedral capsid that encloses a single-stranded RNA genome. The genome of Martellivirales viruses is relatively small compared to other viral families, containing a limited number of genes that encode essential proteins for viral replication and assembly.

Replication Cycle

The replication cycle of Martellivirales viruses involves attachment and entry into the host archaeal cell, followed by the release of viral genetic material into the cytoplasm. The viral genome is then translated into viral proteins, which are necessary for the replication and assembly of new viral particles. Once assembled, the mature virions are released from the host cell to infect other archaeal cells.

Host Range

Martellivirales viruses exclusively infect archaea, which are single-celled microorganisms that thrive in extreme environments such as hot springs, deep-sea vents, and salt flats. These viruses have co-evolved with their archaeal hosts and play a crucial role in shaping microbial communities in these extreme habitats.

Importance

Martellivirales viruses are of interest to researchers studying viral diversity and evolution in extreme environments. Their unique genetic makeup and interactions with archaeal hosts provide valuable insights into the co-evolution of viruses and their microbial hosts in extreme ecosystems.