Baculoviridae is a family of viruses that primarily infect insects, particularly caterpillars. These viruses are known for their rod-shaped structure and double-stranded DNA. Baculoviruses are often used in biological pest control because they can specifically target and kill harmful insect populations without affecting other species. The life cycle of Baculoviridae involves the virus entering the host insect's cells, where it replicates and eventually causes the host to die. This process releases new viral particles, which can then infect other insects. Researchers also study baculoviruses for their potential use in gene therapy and vaccine development.