Test: Truffle ID

Testing service 1: Evaluate truffles for identification

We can test for Tuber melanosporum, T. aestivum, T. brumale, T. borchii, T. canaliculatum, T.  lyonii and other species upon request. This test can be conducted at any time of year.

In the case that a truffle sample tests negative from our species-specific assays, we will send the sample off-site to sequence informative regions of DNA that may determine the identity.

Instructions:

Pieces (approx. 1 cm x 1 cm x 1 cm) of each truffle to be used for inoculation should be removed using a clean, sharp knife and each sample and air-dried at room temperature. Please place each piece to be tested into its own labelled container (plastic or paper bag is fine) so you can match results.

There are two ways to prepare and ship:

• The simplest and cheapest is to air-dry the pieces at room temperature.
  • Ship them in sealed, labeled plastic bags (one sample should reflect one truffle).
  • You do not need to expedite shipping. Ground transportation (or USPS) is ok since they are dehydrated.
• The other option is to immediately freeze truffle pieces in labeled plastic bags.
  • Use dry ice to ship the frozen pieces overnight to avoid secondary organisms colonizing the tissue.
  • Ideally, use an insulated box to ship frozen samples, it is not uncommon for us to receive thawed rotten truffles (Ew!).

Cost for testing service 1: $250 for up to ten truffles tested ($25 per truffle after 10).

Results expected within 10 business days. 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.

Click here for truffle testing sample form. This form should be enclosed in your package or scanned and emailed to us.