What was it all about?

This project, which ran from 2013 to 2016, focused on the biosecurity of the Australian strawberry industry, with the development of improved tools to underpin quarantine access to planting material, supporting the certification of strawberry runners. It was largely funded by voluntary contributions, with some levy funding.

It resulted in the production of a draft diagnostic manual, submitted for review and subsequent endorsement by the National Plant Biosecurity Diagnostic Network, to be integrated into the Victorian Strawberry Industry Certification Authority scheme.

The methods for pathogen detection include…

• Visual observations
• Biological indexing onto sensitive indicator plants
• Culturing onto agar plates for fungal and bacterial pathogens
• Molecular methods such as polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests and reverse transcription (RT)-PCR tests.

The manual incorporates information of horticulture practices to support biological indexing of viruses and fungi, gives guidance on optimal sampling and testing procedures with respect to cool temperate and sub-tropical climates, and gives specific protocols for a range of pathogens.

The final report for this project is confidential. Please email communications@horticulture.com.au to request access.