Lack of abundant core virome in Culex mosquitoes from a temperate climate region despite a mosquito species-specific virome.

ABSTRACT: In arthropod-associated microbial communities, insect-specific viruses (ISVs) are prevalent yet understudied due to limited infectivity outside their natural hosts. However, ISVs might play a crucial role in regulating mosquito populations and influencing arthropod-borne virus transmission. Some studies have indicated a core virome in mosquitoes consisting of mostly ISVs. Employing single mosquito metagenomics, we comprehensively profiled the virome of native and invasive mosquito species in Belgium. This approach allowed for accurate host species determination, prevalence assessment of viruses and Wolbachia, and the identification of novel viruses. Contrary to our expectations, no abundant core virome was observed in Culex mosquitoes from Belgium. In that regard, we caution

SUBMITTER: De Coninck L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11237611 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature