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Myxomatosis Two Bids


Myxomatosis is a system of multipurpose two-bids based on transfer preempts. Opening bids at the 2-level commonly show a weak two in the next higher suit, but may also represent strong or two-suited hands. Myxos qualify as a Brown Sticker Convention (BSC) under WBF rules.

Many strains of Myxos abound. Here is one possible matrix.

Opening Meanings (ACOL) Meanings (Strong Club)
2C An ACOL 2C opener
A weak two in diamonds
5/5 in H and S, 5-10 HCP

 10-15 HCP, 6 clubs
Same
Same
2D An ACOL 2D opener
A weak two in hearts
5/5 in C and S, 5-10 HCP
21-22 HCP, balanced

 10-15 HCP, 6 diamonds
Same
Same
N/A (Open 1C)
2H An ACOL 2H opener
A weak two in spades
5/5 in C and D, 5-10 HCP

 Same
Same
Same
2S An ACOL 2S opener
A weak three-bid in clubs
5/5 in D and H, 5-10 HCP

 Same
Same
Same
2NT 5/5 in C and H, 5-10 HCP
5/5 in D or S, 5-10 HCP

 Same
Same
3C A weak three-bid in diamonds  

 Same
3D A weak three-bid in hearts

 Same
3H A weak three-bid in spades

 Same
3S Gambling 3NT

 Same
3NT A minor suit preempt (4C/D)

 Same
3C Namyats

 Same
3D Namyats
 Same


Note that the 3-level bids are optional and up to partnership agreement.

Additionally, some partnerships use 2NT as a natural strong bid, and remove this hand type from the 2D opening. Hands with 5/5 clubs and hearts are then shown by a 3C opener, and 5/5 diamonds and spades are shown by 3D.


Two-Level Responses

Myxos are forcing for one round. Responder should assume that opener has a weak two, the most frequent hand type.

  • "Accept" the transfer by bidding opener's presumed suit. This is a signoff. Opener can bid a new suit to show a different hand pattern (or 2NT after 2D : 2H).

  • Any new suit shows 6+ cards and is non-forcing.

  • 2NT is artificial, strong and forcing. Opener should bid his natural suit (weak or strong), or the cheapest one if holding a two-suiter.


Origins

Myxomatosis was invented in the 1970s by Dr. Bob Sebesfi of Australia, who also created the SWINE convention. Technically speaking, Myxomatosis is a disease used by the Australian government to control the country's rabbit population. The crossover reference to weak bridge players was described by Alan Truscott in a 1983 bridge column about Dr. Sebesfi in the New York Times.