5.3 Viral Classification: ICTV classification, Baltimore Classification and their comparison
5.3 Viral Classification: ICTV classification, Baltimore Classification and their comparison 5.3.1 ICTV Classification Overview The International Committee on Taxonomy of Viruses (ICTV) is the global authority responsible for the classification and nomenclature of viruses. Established in 1966, the ICTV aims to develop a universal taxonomic framework for viruses based on their evolutionary relationships, ensuring consistency in naming and classification across the scientific community. Key Aspects of ICTV Classification Hierarchical Structure The ICTV classifies viruses into a hierarchical structure that includes the following taxonomic ranks: Order: Ortervirales Family: Retroviridae Genus: Lentivirus Species: Human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) Criteria for Classification Viruses are classified based on several criteria, including: Type of nuclei...