Complete nucleotide sequences of garlic viruses A and C, members of the newly ratified genus Allexivirus.

Complete genomic sequences of garlic viruses A (Gar V-A) and C (Gar V-C), members of an unassigned virus group recently identified in garlic plants, were determined. Their respective genomes consist of 8 660 and 8 405 nucleotides. The genomic structure and organization of these viruses are similar to shallot virus X (ShVX) which is the type species of the newly ratified genus Allexivirus. Phylogenetic analysis based on the amino acid sequences of the putative proteins including RNA-dependent RNA polymerase (RdRP), DNA helicase, or viral coat protein showed that the GarV-type viruses should be included in the genus Allexivirus. Furthermore, the amino acid sequence in the RdRP hypervariable region is highly divergent among the viruses in the genus Allexivirus, suggesting that they evolved independently from a hypothetical ancestor virus(es).