A genomic research project in British Columbia has successfully addressed a major challenge facing the region’s blueberry industry: the inability to detect viral infections in many visibly sick plants. Led by Genome BC in collaboration with Simon Fraser University, the BC Blueberry Council, and Phyto Diagnostics, the initiative focused on two key viruses—Blueberry Scorch and Blueberry Shock—that threaten production.
While Scorch requires plant removal, Shock symptoms may fade over time. Accurate diagnosis is essential, but standard tests were proving unreliable.
Unreliable diagnostics raise concern
In recent years, many blueberry growers noticed a troubling trend: plants showing clear signs of viral infection often tested negative using the conventional ELISA diagnostic method. For instance, in 2020, nearly 30% of symptomatic plants in the Fraser Valley tested negative despite visible symptoms.
This discrepancy led researchers to suspect that the viruses had mutated, making them undetectable by current diagnostic tools.
New virus variants discovered
To investigate, the research team used next-generation genomic sequencing. The results confirmed their suspicion: both the Blueberry Shock and Scorch viruses had evolved into new variants, which existing ELISA tests could no longer reliably detect.
Additionally, the sequencing uncovered four previously undocumented viruses present in BC blueberry fields. Fortunately, these were determined to be non-pathogenic and not harmful to growers.
Improved tools for the future
Armed with this new genomic data, the researchers are now developing updated diagnostic tools. These include improved ELISA kits capable of detecting the new virus variants, as well as more sensitive PCR-based tests to identify infections even at low concentrations.
These tools are expected to become available ahead of the next growing season, helping growers make informed decisions about plant removal and disease management.
Long-term impact of genomics
Beyond the immediate benefits, the project highlights the transformative power of genomics in agriculture. By using advanced sequencing technologies, the researchers not only resolved a current production issue but also set a new benchmark for plant disease diagnostics.
This approach enhances early detection, supports more sustainable farming practices, and strengthens the competitiveness of BC’s highbush blueberry industry on both a national and international scale.
Text and image source: newswire.ca
