Hi Roger. Critter Creek Labs tests for CMV and ORSV independently, their double well test actually being a 4 well test, 2 each, so they can report the incidence of each in the sample. Yes, it is pricy, and they raised their prices last year, after my last testing. There is a price break at 10 samples, and again at 21, so in quantity, it is $5.25 per sample. Not only is it prohibitive for testing my entire greenhouse of 1000 plants, but it only tests for these 2 viruses, with about double the cost if you include their Bean Yellow Mosaic (BYMV) test. While the other viruses are uncommon, it does not mean your collection will be without them if it is large and diverse enough. The light microscope/inclusion body test should be capable of picking up all viruses, but there are several different dyes and processes to cover the various types. All testing has its percentage of failures, and by testing myself, I should be able to revisit certain plants as continuing symptoms suggest a possible missed infection.
Icones, I would like a copy of the Applied Biology article, but will check with our Jr. College Library after the holidays. They have been able to get reprints for me before, and I expect this would not be an exception. _______________________________________________ the OrchidGuide Digest (OGD) [email protected] http://orchidguide.com/mailman/listinfo/orchids_orchidguide.com
