Structure of viruses Most viruses are too small to be seen under light microscope. All viruses consists of an rNa or dNa core genome surrounded by a protein coat id capsic The combined viral genome and capsid is called the nucleocapsid. .The nucleic acid of a virus is surrounded by a protein coat called the capsid .Each capsid is composed of protein subunits called capsomeres .In some viruses, the capsid is covered by an envelope, which usually consists of some combination of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates. .Depending on the virus, envelopes may or may not be covered by spikes, which are carbohydrateprotein complexes that project from the surface of the envelope.• Most viruses are too small to be seen under light microscope. • All viruses consists of an RNA or DNA core genome surrounded by a protein coat capsid. • The combined viral genome and capsid is called the nucleocapsid. •The nucleic acid of a virus is surrounded by a protein coat called the capsid •Each capsid is composed of protein subunits called capsomeres. •In some viruses, the capsid is covered by an envelope, which usually consists of some combination of lipids, proteins, and carbohydrates. •Depending on the virus, envelopes may or may not be covered by spikes, which are carbohydrateprotein complexes that project from the surface of the envelope. Structure of viruses