Picovirinae is a subfamily of viruses in the order Caudovirales, in the family Salasmaviridae. Bacteria serve as natural hosts. There are two genera and seven species in this subfamily.[2][3]
Taxonomy
The following genera and species are recognized:[3]
Viruses in Picovirinae are non-enveloped, with icosahedral or prolate heads of about 50–55 nm in diameter, and short tails. Genomes are linear, double stranded DNA, and are relatively small (between 16–20 kbp)-hence the term pico-virinae. Picoviruses package linear, monomeric genomes with a terminal protein covalently attached to each end.[2]
Life cycle
Viral replication is cytoplasmic. Entry into the host cell is achieved by adsorption into the host cell. Replication follows the DNA strand displacement model. DNA-templated transcription is the method of transcription. Bacteria serve as the natural host. Transmission routes are passive diffusion.[2]
