Could this be Cymbidium Mosaic or Odontoglossum Ringspot Virus?

[MikeM]

Hello everyone. I'm new to orchids and recently repotted several orchids inherited from my mother who was an orchid enthusiast.

Several of the potted cymbidiums exhibit white streaks of discoloration on the leaves with a few of the leaves on some plants looking much like the attached photo.

Comparing with the few photos on the web and on this board, I think these orchids may be infected with CymMV or ORSV. What do you think? If so, has anyone had any success growing infected cymbidiums in isolation?

I would hate to destroy these orchids in light of their sentimental value, but if there's no hope for them, they will ultimately have to be discarded.

[trdyl]

Welcome to OB!

To make sure there are labs available that you could send a sample to for testing.

[Zoi2]

Hello and welcome to the OB.
I hope you don't have a virus, but you do need to get it tested, it's not that expensive.
Joann

[camille1585]

While it certainly does look like it could be virus symptoms there are often cases where despite the virused appearance the damage was caused by something else. Seeing the sentimental value the plants have for you, you should take the guesswork out of it and have the plants tested so you know what you're dealing with. If it is virus, keep in mind that clean looking plants may be carrying the virus.

A good place to send samples to are Critter Creek Lab. They'll run Elisa tests on the samples to test for the 2 viruses. You can also order test kits to test your plants yourself. I can't remember the website where you can order those. I think Agdia carries them.

[MikeM]

I'll proceed with the testing. However, assuming they are infected, are they expected to die even with regular care?

I understand that the risk of caring for them in isolation is that they can still spread the infection and have decreased quality blooms, but are there other risks involved? Thanks in advance.

[Call_Me_Bob]

I have no idea but I wish you luck and welcome to ob

[trdyl]

Originally Posted by MikeM

I'll proceed with the testing. However, assuming they are infected, are they expected to die even with regular care?

I understand that the risk of caring for them in isolation is that they can still spread the infection and have decreased quality blooms, but are there other risks involved? Thanks in advance.

Yes, even keeping them isolated the virus can still spread by insects or even you if you do not sterilize tools between plants. You'll have to be very faithful in hand washing as well when handling them.

[Swamper]

Ever find out what it was Mike?