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01-04-2010 | Brief Review

Clarification and guidance on the proper usage of virus and virus species names

Authors: Jens H. Kuhn, Peter B. Jahrling

Published in: Archives of Virology | Issue 4/2010

Abstract

A pivotal step in the development of a consistent nomenclature for virus classification was the introduction of the virus species concept by the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) in 1991. Yet, almost two decades later, many virologists still are unable to differentiate between virus species and actual viruses. Here we attempt to explain the origin of this confusion, clarify the difference between taxa and physical entities, and suggest simple measures that could be implemented by ICTV Study Groups to make virus taxonomy and nomenclature more accessible to laboratory virologists.

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Title: Clarification and guidance on the proper usage of virus and virus species names
Authors: Jens H. Kuhn
Peter B. Jahrling
Publication date: 01-04-2010
Publisher: Springer Vienna
Published in: Archives of Virology / Issue 4/2010
Print ISSN: 0304-8608
Electronic ISSN: 1432-8798
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00705-010-0600-9

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