How Can CTV-SP Be Detected?
CTV-SP can be readily identified by looking for
pits in the trunk and branches in the field. For
confirmation of infection, bioassay and molecular
detection must be performed. CTV-SP isolates can
be detected by inoculation of specific susceptible
cultivars. For example: Duncan grapefruit seedlings
are used to detect grapefruit CTV-SP and Madam
Vinous is commonly used to detect sweet orange
CTV-SP isolates. Most CTV-SP isolates react to the
MCA13 monoclonal antibody used in Florida to
detect severe CTV isolates. However, MCA13 can
not separate decline isolates from CTV-SP isolates.
Molecular techniques used to differentiate CTV-SP
isolates from other CTV isolates are currently being
evaluated and tested.