LABORATORY
The laboratory conducts serological and molecular analyses to detect citrus diseases using Elisa, RT-PCR, and electrophoresis techniques, as well as in vitro culture services for plant sanitation and the creation of new hybrids. It ensures the certification of plant health, providing benefits to producers through Moroccan state subsidies.
Laboratory of Serological and Molecular Analyses.
For the detection of citrus viruses and mycoplasmas, the laboratory uses the ELISA technique.
For viroids causing Exocortis and Cachexia, the laboratory employs the RT-PCR technique combined with gel electrophoresis.
In Vitro Culture Laboratory.
To address viral or viroid diseases in orchard trees, the laboratory uses apex micrografting to sanitize affected varieties. A 0.2 mm meristem is grafted in vitro onto trifoliate rootstock, followed by cultivation under sterile and controlled conditions to produce genetically identical, disease-free plants. Additionally, embryo rescue techniques are employed to develop new triploid hybrids.
Biological Indexing Greenhouses.
For the detection of viruses, viroids, and mycoplasmas, biological indexing is sometimes necessary depending on the type of disease being tested. In certain cases, biological indexing is essential to confirm the health status of the tested plant. This process involves inoculating an indicator plant with a sample from the plant under investigation. The indicator plant is then placed in a greenhouse with controlled temperature and humidity. After a specific period, disease-specific symptoms will appear if the plant is infected.
Services
Virological testing is conducted for plant material from the Sapiama nursery and Kabbage estates.
By establishing this laboratory, we are certifying all varieties produced within the nursery, providing our clients with an additional guarantee regarding the health status of our plants. Moreover, producers can benefit from Moroccan government subsidies that promote the planting of certified, authentic, and disease-free orchard trees.
Varietal Research
and Development
- Research at the Kabbage estates focuses primarily on developing citrus varieties tailored to market needs.
- Over the past fifteen years, trials on rootstocks and citrus varieties have been conducted at the Kabbage estates to select those best suited to local conditions.
- A pollination program is established every year to create new hybrids. Several partnerships with research centers are in place to develop new diploid and triploid citrus hybrids with early or late maturation.
- Furthermore, a partnership with breeders and developers of new citrus varieties has been established to test and develop these varieties in Morocco.
Certification
Certification is essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of plant production.
It provides a fundamental framework for implementing integrated pest and disease management practices, with a focus on effective control.
This certification guarantees that growers receive healthy, true-to-type, and authentic plants that meet the highest quality standards.
Key components of the certification program include strict protocols, controlled propagation material, and a structured certification and traceability process, ensuring the distribution of high-quality planting material.
OUR ADDRESS
Taroudant
B.P : 198 - Ain Mediour Taroudant - Maroc
Belksiri
EL Haouafate Mechraa Belksiri - Maroc
Email: contact@sapiama.ma
Phone: +212 (0) 528 550 292
CONTACT US
Whether you’re seeking information, need assistance with a specific request, or wish to share your feedback, the SAPIAMA team is here to help.
