The overlooked small terrestrial mammal taxa (Rodentia, Eulipotyphla, and Lagomorpha) in the evolution of coronaviruses

Léa JOFFRIN, Rianne van Vredendaal, Jana Těšíková, Joachim Mariën

Coronaviruses have been extensively detected in bats over the past few decades. However, increasing evidence suggests that other taxa, such as Rodentia, Eulipotyphla, and Lagomorpha, may have played a significant role in the ecology and evolution of some coronaviruses. Here, we compile recent contributions illuminating these mammals' enigmatic role in coronavirus evolution. We highlight how taxonomic and technical biases in coronavirus surveillance may have diminished the perceived importance of these animals in the ecology and evolution of certain coronaviruses and propose future directions to uncover the role of these small terrestrial mammals in coronavirus circulation. Additionally, we examine ecological factors that drive the maintenance and circulation of coronaviruses within small mammal populations and explore the importance of host dynamics on viral circulation within these groups. Furthermore, we address the potential risk small terrestrial mammals pose as sources or intermediate hosts for newly emergent human and livestock pathogenic coronaviruses. We address the under-investigation of specific taxa like Eulipotyphla in coronavirus evolution, emphasizing the need for comprehensive surveillance and research efforts. By recommending these future directions, we aim to enhance our understanding of coronavirus ecology and improve our ability to manage potential zoonotic threats.