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Phasing out of ELISA tests and replacement with PCR tests for Dahlia

Publicationdate: 26 februari 2025

As of March 1, 2025, for the crop Dahlia, we are replacing our ELISA tests with PCR tests. In previous posts, we indicated that we will phase out ELISA tests. We also announced that as soon as all virus tests for a crop can be performed with PCR, ELISA can no longer be requested. For Dahlia, this moment has now arrived.

Virus tests for Dahlia  

For the crop Dahlia, we have the following virus tests available with PCR:  

  • Alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV)  
  • Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV)  
  • Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV)   
  • Impatiens stain virus (INSV)  
  • Tobacco streak virus (TSV)   
  • Dahlia mosaic virus species complex (DMV/DCMV)   
  • Pospiviroids 

Potyvirus we will continue to test with ELISA  

The Potyvirus test remains an exception for the time being. This test covers a very large group of viruses. This makes the development of a PCR test very complex and takes longer. A separate sample is still required for the Potyvirus test. 

Sample size and PCR rates  

For our PCR tests we use three different sample sizes with corresponding rates:  

  • Up to 2 leaves: € 9.20 per virus per sample   
  • Maximum 10 leaves: € 17.70 per virus per sample  
  • Maximum 25 leaves: € 48.90 per virus per sample  

For some tests, we charge a different rate. This rate can be found in our Price list. Please also refer to our Price list 2025 for the base rates. 

Why is the testing method going to change?  

There are a number of reasons why Naktuinbouw is going to phase out the ELISA tests: 

  • PCR is more robust than ELISA tests. Samples may consist of more leaves than ELISA, but we also continue to offer the services for 2 leaves. 
  • More automation and robotization is possible with PCR, leading to certainty of capacity and lead times. 
  • Beginning and/or latent infections are measurable, which cannot be detected with ELISA. 
  • Simplification of sampling by uniform testing method. This eliminates the need to take separate samples for different viruses (except for Potyvirus). 

An additional advantage, PCR allows for faster response to the discovery of new pathogens. 

Check the website for an overview of all crops where we only perform PCR virus testing.  

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