Characterization and phylogenetic analysis of a novel filamentous polymycovirus GbPmV1

Impact statement Mycoviruses are common in fungi and can change their host's functions. Here, we identify a novel dsRNA mycovirus GbPmV1 from the fungus Gongronella butleri . The genome of GbPmV1 exceeds 10,000 nucleotides and comprises six dsRNAs, with dsRNA1 encoding the RdRp and dsRNA6 encoding the capsid protein. GbPmV1 belongs to the family Polymycoviridae and shows unusual filamentous, virus‐like particles. Infection by GbPmV1 enhances the resistance of its fungal host to stresses and antifungal azoles. This study not only identifies a novel mycovirus in the zygomycete fungus G. butleri but also provides insights into the evolution and biological properties of polymycoviruses.