The Hidden Diversity of Benyviridae and their Polymyxa Vectors: A Comparative Analysis
(2026) Annual Review of Phytopathology — Vol. 64, n° 6, p. 1-26 (2026)
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- The Benyviridae family encompasses multipartite soil-borne phytoviruses characterized by rod-shaped virions and positive single-stranded RNA genomes. The family is mostly known for its type species, the beet necrotic yellow vein virus, the causal agent of rhizomania on sugar beet. However, the recent description of candidate Benyviridae species and "beny-like" sequences suggests a far greater diversity than previously recognized. Also, their increasing relevance in agriculture has drawn attention to this family of viruses. In this review, we provide a comparative analysis of Benyviridae viruses, including newly identified emerging relatives. We highlight recent advances in understanding their diversity, pathogenicity, and interaction with plant hosts and their plasmodiophorid vectors, Polymyxa spp., that remain poorly characterized. Finally, we identify critical knowledge gaps and exciting opportunities-particularly in vector biology, host interactions, and the ecological dynamics of viral spread-that will shape the research ahead.
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Genard, M., Jaffré, E.-L., Albar, L., Legrève, A., Hébrard, E., & Bragard, C. (2026). The Hidden Diversity of Benyviridae and their Polymyxa Vectors: A Comparative Analysis. Annual Review of Phytopathology, 64(6), 1-26. https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-phyto-011325- (Original work published 2026)