Test: FTA Cards
Testing service 4: Evaluate Tuber species colonization on roots using FTA cards
For testing services 4, we test the FTA cards (that you have sampled tree roots with) for the presence of Tuber species using DNA markers. We can test for the presence of Tuber melanosporum, T. aestivum, T. brumale, T. borchii, T. canaliculatum, T. lyonii, and other species at your request.
What are FTA cards?
FTA cards are postcard size cards that can be used by anyone for sampling from plant tissues. The cards are infused with specific chemicals that stabilize and protect DNA for subsequent detection or identification of specific microorganisms. For truffles, they can be used to collect DNA from tree root samples before mailing them to the lab to evaluate the presence of Tuber species on the sampled roots. As a part of this testing method, growers will need to use a microscope to sample tree roots that they would like to be tested. This method of testing requires more effort from the grower but is cheaper than sending in root samples for the lab to examine due to labor costs required of a skilled technician.
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. Follow the instructions below to: collect and prepare roots, observe mycorrhizal association using a microscope, and sample roots using FTA cards.
FTA cards can be shipped via ground transportation in an letter envelope. You do not need to ship FTA cards with expedited shipping.
Cost: $160 per FTA card (includes 4 samples); $40 per sample with soil.
Results expected within 10 business days.
Click here for truffle testing sample form. This form should be enclosed in your package or scanned and emailed to us.