The most comprehensive source of seed pathology Knowledge in the world

It all started with PDA (Potato Dextrose Agar). One manufacturer decided to change their formulation to be cheaper to produce, and the shift in culture color and morphology was huge, and yet, they didn't ostensibly change the ingredients, nor their concentrations. This led to an in-depth investigation to see if other labs were aware that manufacturing changes could have huge impacts in the lab.

ISTA is an association that promotes information sharing, dissemination of knowledge and provides training to young seed pathologists, but the currently available reference images are lacking important details. Teaching our next generation of plant pathologists should take precedence during these times when food security and seed health are so critical.

We believe in seed quality, and that means standardized testing, to get the same result, in any accredited lab. To do that, training needs to be created that includes ALL the factors that can influence pathogen growth in the lab. We will provide experts who will approve the images that YOU submit, so we can all benefit from our shared knowledge.