Orchid viruses are capable of causing flower deformities and death, which can severely
impact the horticultural industry and wild orchid conservation. Here we show
how two of these quickly evolving viruses display few genetic differences since their
first emergence, across countries and host plants. This is concerning as, despite biosecurity
regulations to control the movement of orchids and their related pathogens,
these patterns are suggestive of rapid and regular international movement of horticultural
material. Poor biosecurity practices could threaten the orchid horticultural
industry and result in the accidental translocation or reintroduction of infected plant
material intended to recover wild populations.