vermicon VIT - Nitrotoga Test Kit

The VIT® Nitrotoga test kit enables the rapid identification and reliable quantification of the bacteria of the genus Nitrotoga responsible for nitrite oxidation. These remarkable bacteria are able to work stably and efficiently even under difficult conditions such as low temperatures or elevated FA (free ammonia) and FNA (free nitric acid) levels.

specific identification of Nitrotoga
VIT® technology enables the targeted detection of individual microorganisms at population, genus or species level. The use of highly specific, rRNA-based gene probes ensures clear identification of the target organism directly in the sample.

quantitative results on the implementation of an early warning system

The technology enables direct quantification of the target organisms in the sample. Using the VIT® Vision software, the population development can be recorded and reliably tracked over time. Even slight changes in the density of AOB and NOB become visible even before the first abnormalities in the process parameters become apparent. This enables proactive intervention - for example, if the nitrite oxidizers begin to decline, even before nitrite accumulates in the process.

detection directly in wastewater samples

The analysis is carried out without complex sample purification or enrichment: the microorganisms are hybridized directly in activated sludge or other environmental samples and then evaluated microscopically. This preserves the natural matrix - a major advantage over methods based on cell isolation or DNA extraction.

detection of living bacteria only

The VIT® gene probes hybridize only with intact, metabolically active cells, as only these have sufficient amounts of ribosomal RNA. This means that only living ammonium-oxidizing and nitrite-oxidizing bacteria are detected, while dead or inactive cells are excluded.

In contrast, PCR only detects DNA, regardless of whether the cell is alive or dead. This means that dead cells can also be detected in PCR analyses, which can lead to a considerable overestimation of the actual biological activity - particularly problematic in processes such as nitrification, where the functional potential is crucial.

fast results

Depending on the setup, it only takes a few hours from sample extraction to analysis. The hybridization is standardized, the analysis is performed by fluorescence microscopy and can also be carried out on site in routine environments. The evaluation and subsequent quantification can be carried out easily with the help of the VIT® Vision software.

easy handling

The test kits are user-friendly and can be integrated into existing laboratory procedures with minimal training. Detection is carried out using fluorescence microscopy and does not require complex equipment or special software solutions. This makes the method particularly robust and user-independent.

• Detection of: Candidatus Nitrotoga
• Samples that can be analyzed include: Activated sludge (direct) other wastewater samples (direct)
• Biofilms (direct)
• Technology: VIT® gene probe technology
• Evaluation: by means of VIT® adapted
• Fluorescence microscope
• Type of analysis: direct, qualitative & quantitative detection
• Scope of delivery: Analysis reagents Product manual
• Package size: 25 analyses