Predicta rNod

Predicta rNod is a DNA-based soil testing service for broadacre farming. It helps pulse producers identify the number of rhizobia in soil for 3 legume inoculation groups – E and F, N, G and S.

Legumes grown in paddocks that are deficient in rhizobia will cause:

  • poor nodulation
  • low nitrogen fixation
  • reduced biomass
  • reduced grain yield
  • lower grain protein
  • potential crop failure.

Our world-leading technology provides a fast and cost-effective solution, helping growers with rhizobium management.

Paddocks respond best to inoculation when soil nitrogen levels are low, as the crop is reliant on rhizobia for its nitrogen supply. When inoculants are applied, paddocks often achieve yield increases of up to 20%.

Learn more about the benefits of Predicta rNod:

Rhizobium tested

Inoculant groups detected by Predicta rNod

Rhizobia

Commercial inoculant group –
strain of rhizobia
Legumes nodulated
Rhizobium leguminosarum
bv. viciae
E:   WSM4643Field pea, lentil and vetch
F:   SRDI969Faba and broad bean
Bradyrhizobium canarienseG:  WU425Lupin, serradella
S:   WSM471Serradella, lupin
Mesorhizobium ciceriN:  CC1192Chickpea

Report results

Results include the:

  • log (rhizobia per gram of soil)
  • estimated inoculation required (high, medium, low or nil), based on the risk to the crop and benefit from inoculation
  • soil pH, measured in calcium chloride
  • soil texture of samples.

These parameters can influence rhizobia survival and soil responsiveness to inoculation.

Example report

Access Predicta rNod services

Growers can access Predicta rNod through a local SARDI-accredited agronomist. They will organise sampling, interpret the results and advise on management options appropriate for your farming system.

The cost of testing is determined by the agronomist delivering the service.

Contact us to arrange an agronomist for broadacre crop soil testing.

Learn about SARDI's short agronomist accreditation course and register your interest in delivering Predicta services.

Submit samples

Following the correct soil sampling protocol is essential for accurate results.

Sampling protocols

Use the same guidelines as for Predicta B – the addition of stubble is not necessary for Predicta rNod samples.

For accurate inoculation requirements of a pulse crop, take samples in Autumn prior to sowing, usually during March.

Sampling can also be done earlier in November or December to inform inoculant orders, noting:

  • if no rhizobia are detected, the result will not change over summer
  • if numbers are low or moderate, you need to account for a possible decline in rhizobia number per gram of soil over the summer months.

We are accredited to receive samples from anywhere in Australia.

Contact

Submit samples

SARDI Molecular Diagnostics Group
Plant Research Centre
2A Hartley Grove
Urrbrae SA 5064

Order free Predicta rNod sample bags

Russell Burns
Phone: 0401 122 115
Email: russell.burns@sa.gov.au

Matthew Rowe
Phone: 0491 933 041
Email: matthew.rowe2@sa.gov.au

Track samples

Nigel Percy
Phone: (08) 8429 2236
Email: nigel.percy@sa.gov.au

Interpret results

Dr Liz Farquharson
Phone: (08) 8429 2243
Email: liz.farquharson@sa.gov.au

Page last reviewed: 14 Feb 2024

 


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