Cystoviridae is a family of viruses that primarily infect bacteria, specifically those in the genus Pseudomonas. These viruses are known as bacteriophages and have a unique double-stranded RNA genome. They are characterized by their complex structure, which includes an icosahedral head and a tail that helps them attach to and penetrate bacterial cells. The life cycle of Cystoviridae involves attaching to a bacterial host, injecting their genetic material, and hijacking the host's cellular machinery to replicate. This process can lead to the lysis, or destruction, of the bacterial cell, releasing new viral particles. These viruses play a significant role in regulating bacterial populations in various environments.