Detecting Phytophthora

Species of the genus Phytophthora are arguably the most destructive plant pathogens causing widespread damage to many horticultural and ornamental species, and to native ecosystems throughout the world. Globalization has increased the volume of plants being transported over long distances and has increased the spread of Phytophthora species. As traditional detection methods such as baiting or direct isolation are incapable of handling the large volume of material to be tested, researchers have developed more rapid and specific antibody and DNA based tests. This review compares the performance of the different types of tests used for detection of Phytophthora.