Encapsidates the genomic RNA, protecting it from nucleases (PubMed:24688060, PubMed:28777080). Displays high affinity for single-stranded nucleic acid (PubMed:23129612). The encapsidated genomic RNA is termed the nucleocapsid (NC) or ribonucleoprotein (PubMed:24688060, PubMed:28777080). The ribonucleoprotein has a non-helical structure (By similarity). Serves as template for viral transcription and replication. After replication, the nucleocapsid is recruited to the host Golgi apparatus by glycoprotein Gn for packaging into virus particles (By similarity). Homodimer (By similarity). Homohexamer; ring-shaped, necessary to form the nucleocapsid (PubMed:23129612, PubMed:24688060, PubMed:28777080). Homopentamers; opened pentamers in solution (PubMed:28777080). Binds to viral genomic RNA (PubMed:23129612, PubMed:24688060). Interacts with glycoprotein Gn; this interaction allows packaging of nucleocapsids into virions (By similarity). Belongs to the phlebovirus nucleocapsid protein family.