Morphology of poxviruses from reptiles
Gerdes, G.H.
Veterinary Record 128(19): 452
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0042-4900 PMID: 1858273 Document Number: 370827
The appearances of poxviruses as seen in electron micrograph of negatively-stained preparations of material from 2 outbreaks in crocodiles and one in caiman are described. The poxvirus particles from affected crocodiles appeared to be roughly brick-shaped with rounded corners, measured 236 to 252 nm x 185 to 228 nm and had an axial ratio of 1.2. In some particles a central dense area measuring 148 nm x 118 nm was seen. Both the M (mulberry) form with a smooth outline and a regular crisscross surface pattern and the slightly larger C(capsular) form, where the surface detail was obliterated by penetration of stain, were present. The particles from the affected caiman were 233 nm x 195 nm and also had a regular criss-cross surface pattern.