Genomic and developmental characterisation of a novel bunyavirus infecting the crustacean Carcinus maenas

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Marine Biology
• Invasive Species Research

Background:

• The invasive crab Carcinus maenas harbors diverse pathogens, including viruses.
• Understanding viral diversity in crustaceans is crucial for ecological and health assessments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel bunyavirus infecting Carcinus maenas in its native range.
• To analyze the genomic and phylogenetic characteristics of this new virus.

Main Methods:

• Viral isolation and sequencing of the tripartite RNA genome.
• Bioinformatic analysis for gene identification and homology.
• Phylogenetic analysis of bunyaviruses infecting crustaceans.

Main Results:

• A novel tripartite negative-sense, single-stranded RNA virus, Carcinus maenas Portunibunyavirus 1, was identified.
• The virus genome encodes RNA-dependent RNA-polymerase, glycoprotein, non-structural protein, and nucleoprotein.
• Phylogenetic analysis indicates crustacean bunyaviruses are distributed across multiple families.

Conclusions:

• This study details a new bunyavirus in an ecologically significant invasive crab species.
• The findings contribute to understanding the broader diversity and evolutionary history of crustacean bunyaviruses.
• Further research is needed to assess the impact of these viruses on crustacean health and survival, particularly in invasive populations.