Water Bait Test - Phytophthora (except P. fragariae, P. rubi, and P. idaei) and Pythium

Detection of Phytophthora (except P. fragariae, P. rubi, and P. idaei) and Pythium from water. Both are groups of pathogenic fungus-like microorganisms that can cause diseases such as root rot on a wide range of plant species. If the Phytophthora species you are interested in is host specific please contact the Plant Clinic before ordering.

Phytophthora and Pythium cause significant damage to crops, particularly in seedlings. Symptoms may include root and stem base necrosis, yellowing of foliage, wilting, stunted growth and dieback.

Using this water bait method, Fera can detect a range of Phytophthora species except P. rubi, P. idaei and P. fragariae which are host specific. It can highlight potential contamination within your irrigation system, which can in turn help safeguard your crops against disease.

To ensure our analysis is accurate we require all samples to be received within 24 hours of sampling.

A separate soil bait test is available for the detection of P. fragariae – click here

A water test for P. rubi and P. idaei is currently unavailable.

Alternatively, we can supply a bag of bait which you leave in the water for 3 days and then return to Fera for Phytophthora and Pythium testing. Please contact us to request a bag of bait.