Test: Orchard Trees
Testing service 3: Evaluate Tuber species colonization on roots and soil from established orchard trees
For testing service 3, we test roots for the presence of Tuber species by examining roots microscopically before using DNA markers to test individual root tips. Under microscopic observation, we count the number of root tips (as a percentage) colonized with mycorrhizae that resemble Tuber species. Additionally, using a qPCR assay, we test for the presence of Tuber species within the soil and quantify the amount of mycelium in the soil (for T. melanosporum and T. aestivum only).
In the case that root tips with morphology resembling tuber species come back negative on our species-specific assays, we send our samples off-site to sequence informative regions of DNA that may determine their identity.
We also test samples for the presence of contaminating Tuber species T. brumale and T. indicum, when appropriate. Keep in mind that a negative detection does not mean the samples are free of these species, but that we were not able to detect them. We cannot prove these species are not present.
Instructions:
Based on information from Europe, we suggest sampling roots from existing orchards towards the middle of the growing season because the mycorrhizal association is most active when the trees are actively growing. In the eastern US, this is usually around May/June to August/September.
If you plan to collect samples, please email or call Inga Meadows before you collect to ensure the timing is appropriate (inga_meadows@ncsu.edu OR 828-456-3943).
It is best to ship samples so that they arrive at the lab Mon-Fri (avoid Saturday delivery as our lab is closed on weekends). If you collect late in the week, keep your samples in the fridge until you can ship them.
This form should be enclosed in your package or scanned and emailed to us.
Cost for testing service 3: $130 per soil/root sample.
Results expected within 15 business days. Note that delays may occur in the summer when our lab is most busy with vegetable and ornamental research. Also, the species-specific assays are negative, extra time may be required to determine the species present. Sending samples off-site to sequence informative regions of DNA can take several days.
Additionally, please note that if the species-specific assays are negative, extra time may be required to determine the species present. Sending samples off-site to sequence informative regions of DNA can take several days.