Zantedeschia
VIRUSES IN ZANTEDESCHIA
Many viruses can occur in Zantedeschia. Virus infection causes symptoms, reduced growth, and/or loss. The presence of viruses in a batch is a source of spread. Some of the most common viruses in the Netherlands are Dasheen mosaic virus (DaMV) and Konjac mosaic virus (synonym Zantedeschia mosaic virus) (KoMV/ZaMV), which are spread by aphids. The absence of these viruses is important for export to various countries. However, various other viruses also occur in Zantedeschia, such as Arabis mosaic virus (ArMV), cucumber mosaic virus (CMV), bean sharp mosaic virus (BYMV), and other potyviruses transmitted by aphids.
At BQ Support, ELISA and/or PCR testing capabilities are available for a wide range of viruses.
KoMV usually causes distinct light and dark green leaf spots in Zantedeschia. In addition, it can also cause leaf malformation and marked flower color breakage in red, pink and orange cultivars. Symptoms tend to become more severe in combination with other viruses which can even lead to extremely narrow "lace leaf.
Opportunities
Virus
In the diagram below you will find an overview of tests that are possible with us. It also states which viruses are detected in which parts of the plant using which test method.
| ELISA | PCR | PCR | PCR | |
| Virus | Leaf | Leaf | Tuber | Tissue |
| ArMV | V | V | V | V |
| BYMV | X | V | V | V |
| CLLV | X | V | V | V |
| CMV | V | V | V | V |
| DsMV | X | V | V | V |
| INSV | X | V | V | V |
| KoMV/ZaMV | V | V | V | V |
| TSWV | V | V | V | V |
| TuMV | X | V | V | V |
| ZaMMV | X | V | V | V |
| Potyvirus* | V | V | V | V |
* Potyviruses can be detected using the Poty-A and Poty-D (ELISA) and Poty-1 and Poty-2 (PCR) tests.
Transition to PCR
Due to the declining availability of the antisera required for ELISA testing, it has been decided that, as of January 1, 2026, Zantedeschia will be tested using the PCR method. If you are considering using the ELISA method, we advise you to contact us in advance to discuss the options still available.
Fungi, bacteria, mites and nematodes
In addition to viruses, a number of fungi and bacteria are also present in Zantedeschia. Some fungi are Alternaria (leaf spots), Pythium (root rot and crater heads), and Rhizoctonia solani. Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum is the most important pathogenic bacterium (smelly soft rot). To identify diseases and abnormalities other than viruses, the usual option is to send in a sample for diagnostic testing.
Abbreviations and name
| ArMV | Arabis mosaic virus |
| BYMV | Bean yellow mosaic virus |
| CLLV | Calla lily latent virus |
| CMV | Cucumber mosaic virus |
| DsMV | Dasheen mosaic virus |
| INSV | Impatiens necrotic spot orthotospovirus |
| KoMV/ZaMV | Konjak mosaic virus / Zantedeschia mosaic virus |
| TSWV | Tomato spotted wilt tospovirus |
| TuMV | Turnip mosaic virus |
| ZaMMV | Zantedeschia mild mosaic virus |
Have your zantedeschias tested
Do you want to know more?
If you want more information or want to know what we can offer you,
please contact us via the contact form. Or call us.
BQ Support
Zwartelaan 2
2161 AL, Lisse