Virus taxonomy and classification: naming of virus species

Virus classification arranges viruses showing similar properties into groups and, even though this depends on choices of which specific properties have a value for classification, it does have certain important features. It aims to give a structured arrangement of viruses so that the human mind can comprehend them more easily. It helps with communication between virologists, and between virologists and non-virologists (e.g. regulators, advisers, other stakeholders etc.). It enables properties of new viruses to be predicted, and it could reveal possible evolutionary relationships. We need appropriate unambiguous names for virus species, which is the keystone taxon, howsoever these are defined. We react to the recent consultation paper [1] and suggest that, before deciding on a binomial (Latinized or non-Latinized) system for virus species names, the International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses develops a 21st century virus classification system that handles the large numbers of new virus species expected from metagenomic studies. This system should be user-friendly for easy communication, especially between virologists and non-virologist stakeholders.