A viral species is a group of viruses that
A)has the same morphology and nucleic acid.
B)has the same genetic information and ecological niche.
C)infects the same cells and cause the same disease.
D)cannot be defined.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A viral species is defined as a group of viruses that share the same genetic information and ecological niche, rather than morphology or disease-causing potential. This definition allows for the classification of viruses that may have different physical characteristics but are still closely related based on their genetic makeup and host range. Therefore, option B is the correct answer. Option A is incorrect because different viruses may have different morphologies, even if they have similar genetic information. Option C is incorrect because viruses may infect different cells and cause different diseases, even if they belong to the same species. Option D is incorrect because viral species can be defined, although it may be more complex than defining species in other domains of life.

A Viral Species Is a Group of Viruses That