Aquareovirus is a genus of double-stranded RNA viruses in the family Reoviridae and subfamily Spinareovirinae. Fish, shellfish, and crustacean species serve as natural hosts. Aquareoviruses in general have low or no pathogenicity for fish. However, some cause hemorrhagic disease, hepatitis and pancreatitis. Grass carp hemorrhage virus (causes hemorrhagic disease of grass carp) is the most pathogenic aquareovirus. There are seven species in this genus.[1] [2]
Aquareoviruses are non-enveloped, with a double capsid structure that has icosahedral geometries, and T=13, T=2 symmetry. The diameter is around 75 nm.
Aquareoviruses have double-stranded RNA genomes which are linear and segmented. The total genome length ranges from 18.2 to 30.5 kbp. The genome has eleven segments and codes for twelve proteins.
Viral replication is cytoplasmic. Entry into the host cell is achieved by attachment to host cell receptors, which mediates endocytosis. Replication follows the double-stranded RNA virus replication model. Double-stranded RNA virus transcription is the method of transcription. The virus exits the host cell by monopartite non-tubule guided viral movement. Fish, shellfish, and crustacean species serve as the natural host.
The genus Aquareovirus has seven member species: