Iridoviridae

Iridoviridae is a family of viruses with double-stranded DNA genomes. Amphibians, fish, and invertebrates such as arthropods serve as natural hosts. There are currently 23 species in this family, divided among two subfamilies and eight genera.

thumb|Transmission electron micrograph of a cell infected with ranaviruses, which gather in the cytoplasm and in the assembly bodies next to the contorted nucleus.

Iridovirus is a genus of viruses in the family Iridoviridae. Arthropods serve as natural hosts. Currently, only two species are placed in this genus. Invertebrate iridescent virus 6 (IIV-6) was recognised as the type species until such a designation was abolished. IIV-6 is hosted by mosquitos and usually causes covert (inapparent) infection that reduces fitness. The other species Invertebrate iridescent virus 31 (IIV-31) is hosted by isopods and causes patent (apparent) infection characterised by blue to bluish-purple iridescence and a shortened lifespan.

Lymphocystivirus is a genus of viruses, in the family Iridoviridae. Fish serve as natural hosts. There are four species in this genus. Diseases associated with this genus include: tumor-like growths on the skin.