viral classification systems

Viral classification organizes viruses based on their genetic material, structure, and how they replicate. The main systems include the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV), which groups viruses into families, genera, and species. Viruses are classified by whether they have DNA or RNA, their shape (like spherical or rod-shaped), presence of an envelope, and replication methods. For example, the family Herpesviridae includes herpes viruses, while Retroviridae includes HIV. This system helps scientists identify, study, and develop treatments for different viruses by understanding their similarities and differences.