Exploring the evolutionary journey of the lumpy skin disease virus through the phylogenetic and phylo-geo network analysis.

Introduction: Lumpy Skin Disease Virus (LSDV), an emerging pathogen from the genus, continues to challenge global livestock health with its expanding host range and genetic adaptability.

Materials And Methods: In this study, we report the first isolation and whole genome sequencing of LSDV from Bos frontalis, a semi-domesticated bovine species native to Northeast India, along with the assembly of an isolate from cattle.

Results: Time to the Most Recent Common Ancestor (TMRCA) estimates support a relatively recent common origin for Indian strains, pointing to ongoing virus circulation and regional adaptation.