Characterization and phylogenetic analysis of a novel filamentous polymycovirus GbPmV1

Mycoviruses are common in fungi and can change their host's functions. Here, we identify a novel dsRNA mycovirus GbPmV1 from the fungus <i>Gongronella butleri</i>. 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 <i>Polymycoviridae</i> 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 <i>G. butleri</i> but also provides insights into the evolution and biological properties of polymycoviruses.