The Insect Virome: Opportunities and Challenges

The insect virome is composed of a myriad of viruses. Both field populations and laboratory colonies of insects harbour diverse viruses, including viruses that infect the insect itself, viruses of microbes associated with the insect, and viruses associated with ingested materials. Metagenomics analysis for identification of virus-derived sequences has allowed for new appreciation of the extent and diversity of the insect virome. The complex interactions between insect viruses and host antiviral immune pathways (RNA interference and apoptosis), and between viruses and other members of the microbiome (e.g. Wolbachia) are becoming apparent. In this chapter, an overview of the diversity of viruses in insects and recent virus discovery research for specific insects and insect-derived cell lines is provided. The opportunities and challenges associated with the insect virome, including the potential impacts of viruses on both research and insect management programmes are also addressed.