Iridoviruses

Definition

Large, icosahedral viruses that infect a variety of invertebrates, including insects, causing iridescent coloration in infected tissues.

Etymology

From the Greek 'iris,' meaning rainbow, referring to the shimmering color observed in infected tissues.

Example

Iridescent Virus Disease is caused by iridoviruses infecting various insect species, including butterflies and beetles.

Related Terms

• Insects
• Iridescent coloration
• dsDNA virus

Usage Notes

Iridoviruses are characterized by their large size (130-330 nm) and the presence of an outer envelope in some strains.