DPIRD offering free seed testing for virus infections in pulses
The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) is offering free seed testing for virus infections, with a focus on cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) in lupins and lentils, as well as pea seedborne mosaic virus (PSbMV) in field peas.
Growers are invited to participate by submitting a 500g seed sample from their lupin and pulse seedlots, accompanied by some basic information. Each grower can submit a maximum of two different seed samples, and it must be submitted before 15 February 2024 to be included. Please note that testing is restricted to a total of 50 seedlots. To ensure your samples are included, please send them in promptly.
The DPIRD team will conduct thorough testing, and results will be delivered before the 2024 seeding season.
Growers who are interested in using this free service need to email DPIRD Research Scientist Dr Nazanin Nazeri (Nazanin.Nazeri@dpird.wa.gov.au) and request the seed testing form. Please note that this testing service is separate from DPIRD’s Diagnostic Laboratory Services seed testing service.
For growers on the East Coast, please be aware of specific quarantine protocols that must be followed when sending seed samples. To ensure smooth processing please follow the protocol as listed below:
1. The seed package must weigh 500g and not exceed this limit.
2. All seeds must be delivered by 15 February 2024. Any seeds received after this date will be discarded.
3. The package must be clearly labelled with the following information, easily visible on the package:
ATTENTION QUARANTINE WASEED SAMPLE – DPIRD**ENTER SPECIES NAME & WEIGHT**APPROVED BY QWA SEEDS OFFICER TO DELIVER TO 3 BARON HAY COURT, SOUTH PERTH, WAOK TO BE PICKED UP BY NAZANIN NAZERI FOR ARRANGED INSPECTION
These details will facilitate the necessary quarantine procedures upon the samples’ arrival in Western Australia.
Find out more here