Filamentous virus-like particles are present in coral dinoflagellates across genera and ocean basins.

ABSTRACT: Filamentous viruses are hypothesized to play a role in stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD) through infection of the endosymbiotic dinoflagellates (Family Symbiodiniaceae) of corals. To evaluate this hypothesis, it is critical to understand the global distribution of filamentous virus infections across the genetic diversity of Symbiodiniaceae hosts. Using transmission electron microscopy, we demonstrate that filamentous virus-like particles (VLPs) are present in over 60% of Symbiodiniaceae cells (genus Cladocopium) within Pacific corals (Acropora hyacinthus, Porites c.f. lobata); these VLPs are more prevalent in Symbiodiniaceae of in situ colonies experiencing heat stress. Symbiodiniaceae expelled from A. hyacinthus also contain filamentous VLPs, and these cells are more degraded than t

SUBMITTER: Howe-Kerr LI 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10689786 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature