Test Overview
Duration: Variable
Fungal plate tests are used to detect specific seedborne fungi. The method is similar in purpose to a blotter test but uses agar growth media that are better suited for the detection and identification of certain fungi.
The method used depends on the crop and target pathogen.
Test Details
Whole seeds are placed directly onto an agar growth medium and incubated under controlled conditions, typically for 7–14 days. During incubation, fungi associated with the seed may grow onto the surrounding medium.
Following incubation, fungal growth is examined for the presence of the target organism. Different types of agar may be used depending on the fungus being tested.
Sample Requirements
Typically, 400 seeds are required for fungal plate testing.
Additional seed may be required when multiple tests are requested on the same sample.