Recognizing species as a new focus of virus research

Species taxa are the units of taxonomy most suited to measure virus diversity, and they account for more than 70% of all virus taxa. Yet, as evidenced by the content of GenBank entries and illustrated by the recent literature on SARS-CoV-2, they are the most neglected taxa of virus research. To correct this disparity, we propose to make species taxa a first choice for communicating virus taxonomy in publications concerning viruses. We see it as a key step toward promoting research on diverse viruses, including pathogens, at this fundamental level of biology.

Automated summary

Species taxa, which make up over 70% of all virus taxa, are the most suitable units for measuring virus diversity but are often neglected in virus research. To address this disparity, it is proposed that species taxa be prioritized in communicating virus taxonomy in publications to promote research on diverse viruses, including pathogens. This step is seen as crucial in advancing research at the fundamental level of biology.