A Duplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was developed for the simultaneous detection and differentiation among Nosema spp. and Vairimorpha spp. from Lepidoptera insects. Two sets of primers were selected from different genomic sequences to specifically amplify an 831 bp amplicon within the SSU rRNA gene, specific for both Nosema spp. and Vairimorpha spp. (MSSR primer); a 542 bp amplicon within the SSU rRNA gene, specific for Vairimorpha spp. (VSSU primer). Using the primers in conjunction (duplex PCR) it was possible to detect Nosema spp. and Vairimorpha spp. to differentiate between them. The sensitivity of this PCR assay was approximately 10 spores per milliliter. It is proposed that the duplex PCR is a sensitive, specific and rapid tool that can serve as a useful differential diagnostic tool for detecting Nosema spp. and Vairimorpha spp. in Lepidoptera insect.

• Choi Ji-Young(Dept. of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, R.D.A.)
• Lee Seok-hyun(Dept. of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, R.D.A.)
• Kim Hong-Geun(Dept. of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, R.D.A.)
• Kwak Kyu-won(Dept. of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, R.D.A.)
• Park Kwan-ho(Dept. of Agricultural Biology, National Academy of Agricultural Science, R.D.A.)