Flotation & Tape Testing

Pin worm testing in Rodents

Rodent pin worms (Syphacia obvelata, Syphacia muris and Aspiculuris tetraptera) are important to know about since they can affect research outcomes. They are all FELASA listed pathogens.

Females of both these worms lay eggs. Syphacia migrates through the GI tract and lays it’s eggs around the anus. These can be found with a simple tape test, where clear adhesive tape is pressed around the anus, placed onto a slide and then examined under a microscope, alternatively they can be detected by PCR.

Eggs of Aspiculuris tetraptera are laid in directly GI tract and are deposited the faecal pellet. These eggs can be found by flotation method. A denser than water solution is used to disperse the faecal pellet this is then centrifuged causing the eggs to float to the top of the solution. They are then examined microscopically.

Fur mite testing in Rodents

Fur mites are a common ectoparasite that can make the infected animal unwell. The tape test is a simple yet effective method used to detect the presence of fur mites in rodents. This non-invasive procedure involves pressing clear adhesive tape against the fur of the rodent, particularly in areas where fur mites commonly reside, such as the back and neck. The tape collects mites and their eggs, which can then be examined under a microscope for identification. Fur mite testing via the tape test is quick, cost-effective, and offers reliable results, making it an essential tool in ensuring the health and well-being of rodents. Alternatively fur mites can be also be detected by PCR.

 Advantages of tape and float testing:

  • Quick turn-around time

  • Non-Destructive

  • Non-Invasive

  • Cheaper than equivalent PCR testing

Contact us today to enquire about our tape testing and flotation services. If sending samples for flotation testing please ensure there are 5+ pellets per sample. For tape test samples please ensure the slides are not touching and are suitabley packages to avoid the slides breaking in transit. If in doubt please do not hesitate to contact us and we will guide you through the process.