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The recently completed CRCNPB funded project (CRC40135) “Improved Post Entry Quarantine Diagnostics” has developed a diagnostic protocol to detect at least 40 known and unknown potyvirus species (Zheng et al., 2010). The potyviruses are one of the most economically important plant virus groups with a wide geographical distribution and include several pathogens that are listed as biosecurity risks to Australian agricultural industries (e.g. Plum pox virus which poses a major threat to the stone fruit and almond industries).

Research outcomes

To ensure end user engagement by federal and state plant diagnostic laboratories in Australia and New Zealand, this protocol has been submitted to the Sub-committee for Plant health Diagnostic Standards (SPHDS) for ratification.

This is the first protocol for the detection of a group of target organisms (e.g. potyviruses) to be ratified by SPHDS and will be used at the border to test material for both known and unknown potyviruses. 

Research implications

It is envisaged that a SPHDS approved diagnostic protocol for potyvirus detection will demonstrate a degree of quality assurance to plant diagnostic laboratories in Australia and New Zealand that will facilitate the uptake and application of this diagnostic tool on a day-to-day basis.

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank Gerard Clover (MAF Biosecurity New Zealand), and Laurene Levy (USDA APHIS PPQ CPHST NPGBL, MD, USA) for trailing the degenerate primers for potyvirus detection in their labs. The Vic DPI and the CRCNPB supported the development of this diagnostic tool over the past five years.

PROJECT LEADER


Dr Brendan Rodoni
Project Leader CRC40180: SPHDS Ratification of Protocol for Potyviruses

brendan.rodoni@dpi.vic.gov.au
Phone: 03 9210 9264
Fax: 03 9800 3521

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PROJECT DETAILS

Status
Complete
Term
June 2011 - September 2011
Budget
$33,650

PROGRAM DETAILS

SPHDS – leading the nation’s diagnosis of plant pests

The CRC works closely with SPHDS helping to ensure they can continue improving Australia’s diagnostic capabilities.

In a world where the challenges from plant pests are continually changing, the ability to rapidly, robustly and cost-effectively identify a plant pest is more important than ever.

Diagnosing karnal bunt

Karnal bunt is disease of wheat caused by the fungus Tilletia indica and was first discovered in northern India in 1930.

Subcommittee on Plant Health Diagnostic Standards

The Subcommittee on Plant Health Diagnostic Standards (SPHDS) was established in 2005, as a subcommittee of Australia’s Plant Health Committee (PHC).