The leaves on the newest growth of my cattleya developed these strange yellowish rings. The catt is a cheap mass-produced mericlone so it is not worth spending the time and money for lab tests. The older leaves are fine and never showed any symptoms. I wonder if I should just chuck it. Apart from the leaf issues, it looks healthy with nice bulbs and roots.
What do you think?
Oh, and the leaves are pleated because I kept the plant too dry this summer.
It's certainly possible that it could be a virus. Only a test could tell for sure. I think it's more likely mesophyll cell collapse. You mentioned that the plant had been dehydrated and the leaves show that the plant has been stressed. If it is cell collapse, those yellowish areas will probably get darker over time and fungus can set in also. I find that orchids with virus are slow, weak growers and often have color break in the flowers.
very good diagnosis tucker, i was stumped thinkin it was some weird fungus from the black spots in the center of each circular area....i guess a test is the only way to be sure of virus....i would isolat this plant at the least...and dont forget to water it, lol.,,gl