Diversity of large DNA viruses of invertebrates

- Recent advances in invertebrate DNA virus taxonomy reviewed.
- Large invertebrate DNA viruses can be divided in three main evolutionary groups.
- Morphology, genomics, replication and host range factors are used in their classification.
- Limited availability of genome sequences complicates classification.

In this review we provide an overview of the diversity of large DNA viruses known to be pathogenic for invertebrates. We present their taxonomical classification and describe the evolutionary relationships among various groups of invertebrate-infecting viruses. We also indicate the relationships of the invertebrate viruses to viruses infecting mammals or other vertebrates. The shared characteristics of the viruses within the various families are described, including the structure of the virus particle, genome properties, and gene expression strategies. Finally, we explain the transmission and mode of infection of the most important viruses in these families and indicate, which orders of invertebrates are susceptible to these pathogens.

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