Sample Collection and Storage
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Taking water samples
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Please record all sampling information on the attached sampling sheet [PDF, 28 KB].
FWA and PCR analysis
If FWA and PCR analysis are both requested then the same 1 litre of water sample will be sufficient for all PCR and FWA analyses.
Samples need to be sent on ice to the ESR lab for processing within 24 hours of collection. FWAs are not detected following storage at room temperature in ambient light after 48 hours. Samples stored at 4°C in the dark or frozen are stable for at least one month.
Faecal sterol analysis
In general, analysis for faecal sterols requires 4 litres of water.
If the water sample is heavily contaminated or turbid then 2 litre samples may be sufficient for testing.
Samples are sent to ESR on ice (ice packs) within 24 hours of sample collection. On arrival at ESR, samples will be filtered and the filters frozen until it is decided that faecal sterol analysis is required.
Alternatively, clients can filter water and send or store frozen filters until a decision has been made about whether the FST analysis is required, the Sample Pre-Processing information is available here [PDF, 27 KB].
Courier all samples on ice to:
Environmental Science and Research (ESR) Ltd.
Christchurch Science Centre
27 Creyke Road, Ilam
Christchurch
Attn: Molecular Biology Lab
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