Catching the Elusive Phytophthora: A Review of Methods and Applications for Pathogen Detection and Identification

Globalisation of the plant trade, driven by rising economic demands, has significantly increased the risk of Phytophthora spp. being introduced and spread across continents. Evidence suggests that multiple Phytophthora spp. often occur together in plant nurseries, creating ideal conditions for transmission through traded plant material. Controlling the movement of these pathogens through trade is a critical objective for plant health specialists. 

Traditional diagnostic methods, although indispensable, often fall short in delivering the necessary speed, sensitivity and specificity required for effective management in the context of contemporary rapid trade practices. Recent advancements in molecular diagnostics have markedly improved our ability to detect Phytophthora swiftly and accurately, with some methods even enabling on-site testing. Such rapid diagnostic tools are crucial not only for meeting commercial demands but also for enabling prompt interventions aimed at reducing pathogen establishment and dissemination. However, continued method development is essential to address the genetic variability and evolving populations of Phytophthora, as well as the challenges involved in detecting asymptomatic infections.

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