Ranaviruses
Ranaviruses are a group of viruses that primarily infect amphibians, reptiles, and fish. They belong to the family Iridoviridae and can cause severe diseases in these animals, leading to high mortality rates. Symptoms of infection may include skin lesions, swelling, and lethargy.
These viruses are often spread through contaminated water or direct contact between infected and healthy animals. Ranaviruses have been linked to population declines in various species, raising concerns about biodiversity and ecosystem health. Research is ongoing to understand their impact and develop strategies for managing outbreaks in affected wildlife.