FAQs

If you don’t see your question on this list, or these questions do not answer your question, submit it Here. Because if you’re wondering, someone else is too!

About our testing service

How do I start using your testing services?

It is best to phone us first so we may assist you in the testing best suited to your needs. Alternatively e-mail or write us.
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What is ELISA?

ELISA is a serological method used to detect pathogens. It is used extensively in medicine as well as plant health. It is an extremely sensitive and accurate method.
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How many different viruses are there that infect orchids?

There are about 40. Twelve new ones have been identified in the last few years.
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Why do you only test for Cymbidium Mosaic Virus (CymMV) and Odontoglossum Ringspot Virus (ORSV) in your Greenhouse Screening Program?

CymMV and ORSV are the viruses most commonly found in orchids.
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Poty-virus refers to a group of related viruses named after the key virus of that group, Potato Virus Y. This is a large group of viruses characterized by among other things, being aphid transmitted. BYMV is a member of this group.
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Are there any other orchid viruses in the poty-virus group?

Twelve or so of the recently discovered viruses are in this group as are and several others that were already known. The antibodies we use to detect BYMV will also detect these.
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Can you test for other viruses?

Yes. Which viruses and the cost could best be discussed by phone or e-mail.
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Can you test plants from any state?

Yes. We have tested plants from most states including Hawaii and Alaska and the territory of Puerto Rico- also from Canada, various Caribbean republics, and occasionally Europe.
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Why is Bean Yellow Mosaic Virus (BYMV) in a separate test?

BYMV is not nearly as widely distributed as the other two and was originally limited to Masdevallias. This incidence of infection happened about 25 years ago. The problem was discovered fairly quickly and steps taken to limit its spread. It is still around though limited in incidence compared to the number of CymMV or ORSV infections.
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Can viruses be eliminated from an infected plant i.e. can the plant be cured of the disease?

At the present time, no. There is research ongoing (always!) in this area.
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Viruses in general

How does a virus get into my collection?

Viruses are most likely introduced from an infected plant you have added to your range.
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After infection how long will it be before symptoms appear?

This depends on the genetic make up of the plant and the virus involved, but it usually takes between two weeks and two months. The virus actually starts to replicate within a few hours and may be detected serologically before symptoms appear.
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Do virus-infected plants always show symptoms?

No. Some plants may be symptom less carriers. Sometimes optimum growing conditions may help to mask symptoms.
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Are the virus particles found only in the tissue showing symptoms?

No. Virus particles tend to move with the nutrient flow within the plant, so they are usually found in actively growing leaves or flowers as well.
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How can a virus get from an infected plant into a healthy one?

Usually when sap from an infected plant gets into some type of wound on the healthy plant, or by insect transmission with certain viruses such as Poty-viruses.
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If I think a plant might have been handled in such a manner so as to become infected, how long should I wait before having it tested?

Well, first you isolate the plant, and then test in four to six weeks.
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