Viral metagenomic studies have provided insights into viral ecology by elucidating the genetic potential, community structure, and biogeography of environmental viruses. Viral metagenomics has expanded current knowledge on virus-host interactions by uncovering genes that may allow the viruses to manipulate their hosts in unexpected ways. The intrinsic potential for virus discovery through viral metagenomics can help advance a wide array of disciplines including evolutionary biology, pathogen surveillance, and biotechnology. In addition, functional viral metagenomics serves as a platform to discover more useful enzymes. As the annotation of viral genes continues to improve, the discovery of vital enzymes will increase considerably. https://www.cd-genomics.com/microbioseq/viral-metagenomics.html