Coronaviridae facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Coronaviridae |
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| SARS-CoV-2 animation | |
Virus classification  |
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| (unranked): | Virus |
| Phylum: | incertae sedis |
| Class: | incertae sedis |
| Order: | Nidovirales |
| Suborder: | Cornidovirineae |
| Family: | Coronaviridae |
| Subfamilies and genera | |
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Coronaviridae is a large family of viruses. These tiny living things have a special outer layer, like a protective coat. Inside, they carry their genetic instructions using a molecule called RNA.
When you look at these viruses under a powerful electron microscope, they look like they have a "crown" around them. This is because they have many spikes on their surface. These spikes help the virus attach to and enter cells. The name "corona" actually means "crown" in Latin.
Contents
Coronaviruses are a group of viruses that belong to the Coronaviridae family. They are known to cause illnesses in both animals and humans. These illnesses can range from mild colds to more serious diseases.
Scientists group the Coronaviridae family into smaller groups. This helps them understand how different viruses are related. There are two main subfamilies: Orthocoronavirinae and Letovirinae.
Within the Orthocoronavirinae subfamily, there are four main types, called genera:
- Alphacoronavirus
- Betacoronavirus
- Deltacoronavirus
- Gammacoronavirus
Many of the coronaviruses that affect humans come from the Alpha- and Betacoronavirus groups. The Letovirinae subfamily is a newer group. Scientists are still learning about the viruses in this group.
How Scientists Classify Viruses
Scientists use a system to organize all living things, including viruses. This system helps them understand how different viruses are connected. It's like sorting books into different sections in a library.
The Coronaviridae family has many different types of viruses. There are 2 subfamilies, 5 main groups (genera), and many smaller groups and specific kinds of viruses (species). Scientists are always discovering new ones.
Images for kids
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Taxonomy of family Coronaviridae with species pathogenic to humans.
See also
In Spanish: Coronaviridae para niños
