Trichovirus is a genus of viruses in the order Tymovirales, in the family Betaflexiviridae. Plants, specifically angiosperms such as pome fruits, citrus, and pear, serve as natural hosts for this plant pathogen. There are seven species in this genus.

Taxonomy

The following species are assigned to the genus:

Structure

Viruses in Trichovirus are non-enveloped, with flexuous and filamentous geometries. The diameter is around 10-12 nm, with a length of 640-760 nm. Genomes are linear, around 7.5-8.0kb in length. The genome codes for 3 proteins.

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. The virus exits the host cell by tubule-guided viral movement. Plants, pome fruits, citrus, and pear serve as the natural host. Transmission routes are grafting. It is transmitted by mites of the family Eriophyidae, requiring a helper virus for transmission.