Biodiversity and evolution of Picorna-like viruses

Abstract Picorna-like viruses are a large group of viruses that, although related at the genetic level, show a remarkable level of diversity. They infect a variety of hosts including humans, mammals, insects, plants and marine algae. During the course of evolution, they have tailored their genomes, sometimes by stealing entire pieces from other viruses, to adapt to their hosts. The mechanisms of evolution of picorna-like viruses are discussed in light of their impact for disease control strategies.