Potyviridae

The Potyviridae are a family of viruses that encompasses more than 30% of known plant viruses, many of which are of great agricultural significance. Currently, more than 190 species are placed in this family, divided among eight genera. Based on the amino acid sequences of their coat proteins, potyviruses are now divided into eight genera. All but the genus Bymovirus are single-stranded particles. Group: ssRNA(+) Potyvirus is the largest genus in the family, with more than 100 known species. These viruses are 720–850 nm in length and are transmitted by aphids. They can also be easily transmitted by mechanical means. The species in the genus Macluravirus are 650–675 nm in length and are also transmitted by aphids. The plant viruses in the genus Ipomovirus are transmitted by whiteflies and they are 750–950 nm long. Tritimovirus and the Rymovirus viruses are 680–750 nm long and are transmitted by eriophydid mites. (The rymoviruses are closely related to the potyviruses and may eventually be merged with the potyviruses.)