The Plant Pathogen Identification Laboratory (PPIL) at the Department of Plant Pathology, North Carolina State University (NCSU) is a specialized service center for the morphological and molecular identification of fungi, straminipiles and bacteria to species and sub-species levels. The PPIL uses traditional and state of the art molecular approaches to identify plant pathogens of importance to researchers, consultants, corporations and others; locally, nationally and internationally.

The PPIL offers an innovative approach integrating traditional and state-of-the-art molecular characterization to identify a broad range of pathogens to generic and specific levels with specialization in Phytophthora, Pythium, Fusarium, Colletotrichum, Rhizoctonia (AG types), Alternaria and others.
Globalization of trade and the implementation of free trade agreements around the world in agricultural products have led to an increased need for fast and reliable identification of plant pathogens to facilitate safe export and import of important agricultural products. The PPIL can assist extension and regulatory personnel both nationally and internationally to confirm the identities of plant pathogenic fungi and bacteria.

Use of our services can facilitate disease management by supporting regional plant diagnostic clinics. Rapid identifications can also enhance research projects, strengthen quarantine programs for the safe international trade of agricultural commodities and germplasm.
The PPIL works in strong collaboration with the Plant Disease and Insect Clinic (PDIC) at North Carolina State University.

Important Links:
AGDIA http://www.agdia.com/
Plant Disease and Insect Clinic http://www.ces.ncsu.edu/depts/ent/clinic/