b'PARTNER CONTENTThe Global Tool Changing HowLabs See FusariumWhy reliable diagnostics matter for everyonefrom breeders and seed growersto global testing networks.Iplates, spore images under the microscope, the brand of recently had the opportunity to lead the creation of a new global resource: an online database designed toagar used, the type of lighting, and the number of days help seed testing labs correctly identify Fusarium.the colony has been growing. Every variable is tracked, Developed through the International Seed Testingso a lab technician in Canada, Germany, or India can Association (ISTA), the project is the first of its kindaarrive at the same identification with confidence.shared, detailed image and training tool that ensuresThe global collaboration behind this project is some-labs around the world can diagnose Fusarium consist- thing Im especially proud to be a part of. Experts from ently. As someone who has worked in seed healthacross continents contributed their time, expertise, and diagnostics for more than a decade at SGS, I knew howsamples to ensure the resource reflects the true diversity much a resource like this was really needed. of Fusarium. For many labs, especially those in developing By NicoleFor me, the importance of this work comes down toregions, this database fills a gap that limited both training Calliou, Diseaseone word: confidence. Whether youre a seed grower,opportunities and diagnostic consistency. Now, anyone Diagnosticsbreeder, or industry professional, you should be able towith internet access can consult the site and align their Lead, SGStrust that when you submit seed for testing, the resultsobservations with internationally recognized standards.Canada Cropwill be the same no matter which lab you choose. ThatGetting here wasnt easy, but today, the website is Science consistency hasnt always been there with Fusariumlive, free to use, and continually expanding with verified diagnostics, and this project aims to change that. contributions from global labs. As more images and spe-Fusarium is a deceptively complex pathogen. Therecies are added, its accuracy and value will only increase, are multiple species, each producing slightly differenthelping to elevate diagnostic standards everywhere.colours, shapes, and growth patterns depending on theWhy does this matter? Because Fusarium isnt just a typeand even the brand of agar used. What lookslab concern. It reduces germination, produces toxins that pink in one lab might appear salmon in another. Early inthreaten food and feed safety, and even causes quality my career, I realized how confusing this could be, so Iproblems in brewing. By giving labs the tools to diagnose started building my own binders of photos and notes toit consistently, were strengthening the reliability of test-train new technicians. That resource worked well withining, protecting grower investments, and safeguarding the our lab, but nothing like it existed on a global scale. seed supply chain.The ISTA project builds on that same idea, but at aFor me, thats the real reward: fixing something that much larger level. The database documents every detailwas broken and building a resource that makes our entire that can influence appearance: top and bottom views ofcommunity stronger.NOVEMBER 2025SEEDWORLD.COM/CANADA 11'