Viruses are acellular, meaning they are biological entities that do not have a cellular structure.  Viruses may also contain additional proteins, such as enzymes. The most obvious difference between members of viral families is their morphology, which is quite diverse.

Acellular as cell structural and functional unit nhi hoti unme if u want detail then read biological classification

Introduction

Viruses are microscopic infectious agents that can cause various diseases in living organisms. They are unique in nature and have characteristics that differentiate them from other living organisms. One significant characteristic of viruses is their structure, which can be either acellular or non-cellular.

Acellular Viruses

Acellular viruses, also known as non-living viruses, lack a cellular structure. They are composed of genetic material, either DNA or RNA, surrounded by a protein coat called a capsid. Acellular viruses cannot replicate on their own and require a host cell to reproduce. Once a host cell is infected, the virus takes over the cellular machinery to produce more viral particles. Examples of acellular viruses include the influenza virus, HIV, and the common cold virus.

Non-cellular Viruses

Non-cellular viruses are considered non-living entities because they do not possess the characteristics of living organisms. They do not have cellular structures, metabolism, or the ability to reproduce independently. Non-cellular viruses are much simpler in structure compared to acellular viruses. They consist of a protein coat that encloses the genetic material, either DNA or RNA. These viruses cannot carry out any metabolic processes or grow and divide. They rely entirely on host cells for replication and survival. Bacteriophages, which infect bacteria, are examples of non-cellular viruses.

Conclusion

In conclusion, viruses can be categorized into acellular or non-cellular based on their structure and characteristics. Acellular viruses lack cellular structures and rely on host cells for replication, while non-cellular viruses are simpler in structure and do not possess the characteristics of living organisms. Understanding the nature of viruses is essential in the field of biology, as it helps in developing strategies to combat viral infections and diseases.