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ICTV Virus Taxonomy Profile: Rhabdoviridae 2026
Peter J Walker1, Nicolas Bejerman2, Kim R Blasdell3
1University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD 4072, Australia.
The Journal of General Virology
|June 9, 2026
Summary
The Rhabdoviridae family includes diverse RNA viruses infecting plants and animals. This report summarizes the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses findings on these significant pathogens.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Taxonomy
- Pathogen Research
Background:
- The Rhabdoviridae family encompasses viruses with segmented negative-sense RNA genomes.
- These viruses exhibit varied morphology, including enveloped bullet-shaped or non-enveloped filamentous forms.
- Rhabdoviruses infect a wide range of hosts, including plants, vertebrates, and invertebrates like arthropods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive summary of the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) report on the Rhabdoviridae family.
- To detail the classification, characteristics, and host range of rhabdoviruses.
- To highlight the significance of rhabdoviruses as pathogens.
Main Methods:
- Review and synthesis of the official ICTV report on Rhabdoviridae.
- Analysis of viral genome structure, virion morphology, and host interactions.
- Compilation of information on rhabdoviruses impacting agriculture, livestock, and human health.
Main Results:
- The Rhabdoviridae family is characterized by viruses with 10-16 kb unsegmented, bi-segmented, or tri-segmented negative-sense RNA genomes.
- Infection spans plants and animals, with arthropods often serving as vectors.
- Includes significant pathogens affecting humans, livestock, fish, and crops.
Conclusions:
- The ICTV report provides an updated taxonomic framework for the Rhabdoviridae family.
- Understanding rhabdovirus diversity and impact is crucial for disease control and prevention.
- This summary serves as a key resource for researchers and diagnosticians working with these viruses.
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