Betatetravirus is a genus of viruses, in the family Alphatetraviridae. Moths and butterflies serve as natural hosts. There are seven species in this genus. Infection outcome varies from unapparent to lethal.
Taxonomy
The following species are assigned to the genus: Antheraea eucalypti virus Darna trima virus Dasychira pudibunda virus Nudaurelia capensis beta virus Philosamia cynthia x ricini virus Pseudoplusia includens virus Trichoplusia ni virus
Structure
Viruses in Betatetravirus are non-enveloped, with icosahedral geometries, and T=4 symmetry. The diameter is around 40 nm. Genomes are linear, around 6.5kb in length.
Life cycle
Viral replication is cytoplasmic. Entry into the host cell is achieved by penetration into the host cell. Replication follows the positive stranded RNA virus replication model. Positive stranded RNA virus transcription is the method of transcription. Translation takes place by ribosomal skipping. Moths and butterflies serve as the natural host. Transmission routes are oral.