Polydnaviruses

Definition

A family of viruses that infect parasitic wasps and manipulate their host insect's physiology.

Etymology

Example

Polydnaviruses are thought to play a crucial role in the success of parasitoid wasps by manipulating their hosts' immune responses.

Related Terms

• Parasitoids
• Hymenoptera
• Host manipulation

Usage Notes

Polydnaviruses are classified as viruses that replicate within the nuclei of calyx cells in the reproductive tract of female wasps. They are considered essential for the survival and reproduction of many parasitoid species.