Largemouth bass ranavirus: Current status and research progression

Largemouth bass ranavirus (LMBV) belongs to the Ranavirus genus of the Iridoviridae family and can infect numerous species of Percidae, such as largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) and bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus). This virus is causing significant harmful and influential effects on both wild and farmed largemouth bass in North America, Europe and Asia, leading to serious economic losses in the aquaculture industry. Accordingly, this virus has become the focus of a significant body of research. Herein, we provide an overview of the latest research progress relating to LMBV by considering viral discovery, biological characteristics, taxonomic status, morphological characteristics, pathogenicity, detection and diagnostic technologies, prevention and control measures. This information will promote an enhanced understanding of the pathogenic mechanisms of LMBV and will benefit virological research so that we can develop effective control measures for this disease.