Environmental virology is the study of viruses in the environment, specifically focusing on their presence, distribution, behavior, and impact on ecosystems. Researchers in this field examine the role of viruses in various environmental processes, such as nutrient cycling, microbial diversity, and disease transmission. They also investigate how environmental factors, such as temperature, pH, and pollution, can affect the survival and proliferation of viruses in different habitats, such as soil, water, and air. The ultimate goal of environmental virology research is to better understand the ecological and public health implications of viruses in the environment and develop strategies for monitoring and managing viral populations in natural and anthropogenic ecosystems.