An iridovirus from the Antarctic seaspider Pentanymphon antarcticum (Pycnogonida)

The Antarctic seaspider Pentanymphon antarcticum is a benthic species in the Southern Ocean, but little is known about its pathogen profile. In this study, we provide a draft genome for a new iridovirus species that has been identified using metagenomic techniques. The draft genome totals 157 260 bp and encodes 188 protein-coding genes. The virus shows greatest protein similarity to a ‘carnivorous sponge-associated iridovirus’ from a deep-sea sponge host. This study represents the first discovery of a pycnogonid iridovirus and the first iridovirus from the Antarctic region.

Details

Publication status:
Published
Author(s):
Authors: Bojko, J., Maxwell, J.M., Burgess, A.L., Nicado, L., Federici, B., Griffiths, H.J. ORCIDORCID record for H.J. Griffiths, Allcock, L.

On this site: Huw Griffiths
Date:
1 April, 2024
Journal/Source:
Antarctic Science / 36
Page(s):
47-50
Link to published article:
https://doi.org/10.1017/S0954102024000063