Abstract
Phaeoviruses are latent double-stranded DNA viruses that insert their genomes into those of their brown algal (Phaeophyceae) hosts. So far these viruses are known only from members of the Ectocarpales, which are small and short-lived macroalgae. Here we report molecular and morphological evidence for a new Phaeovirus cluster, referred to as sub-group C, infecting kelps (Laminariales) of the genera Laminaria and Saccharina, which are ecologically and commercially important seaweeds. Epifluorescence and TEM observations indicate that the Laminaria digitata Virus (LdigV), the type species of sub-group C, targets the host nucleus for its genome replication, followed by gradual degradation of the chloroplast and assembly of virions in the cytoplasm of both vegetative and reproductive cells. This study is the first to describe phaeoviruses in kelp. In the field, these viruses infected two thirds of their host populations; however, their biological impact remains unknown.
DOI
10.1038/ismej.2017.130
Publication Date
2017-12-01
Publication Title
The ISME Journal
Volume
11
Issue
12
Publisher
Oxford University Press (OUP)
ISSN
1751-7370
Embargo Period
2024-11-22
First Page
2869
Last Page
2873
Recommended Citation
McKeown, D., Stevens, K., Peters, A., Bond, P., & et al. (2017) 'Phaeoviruses discovered in kelp (Laminariales)', The ISME Journal, 11(12), pp. 2869-2873. Oxford University Press (OUP): Available at: https://doi.org/10.1038/ismej.2017.130
