Bacterial Counts - Aquarium Water Samples

Please note, samples are not sent to IZVG Pathology, but directly to Nationwide Labs Poulton.

1. Water should be collected on a Monday or Tuesday.
2. Filled bottle should be chilled and sent with ice packs to arrive next day.
3. Clearly label each sample bottle with tank/system.
4. Remember to identify the aquarium on the submission form.

For the bacterial counts on aquarium water samples, you should use a sterile 20mg/l thiosulphate 1000ml bottle, which IZVG can provide for a small charge.

The water sampling bottles are pre-dosed with sodium thiosulphate that neutralises any residual chlorine that is present in the water sample. If using these bottles there should be no need for pre-dosing with any other chemical. The sample just needs to be gently shaken in the bottle to activate the sodium thiosulphate.

A single container of 1000ml should suffice for a routine count. The test usually takes 7 to 10 days.

Please submit to the laboratory address shown below:
Nationwide Laboratories Poulton
Lancefield House
23 Mains Lane
Little Singleton
Poulton-le-Fylde
Lancashire
FY6 7LJ

Please provide a fully completed version of the Submission form (i.e. including details of submitting aquarium, system location for water to be tested etc.). The form is partially pre-filled with the relevant testing information And to ensure that the results are delivered to the IZVG pathologists who will then provide a report.

SUBMISSION FORM

Please complete one form per sample and if additional or repeat samples are needed please use an additional copy of the form.

If you have any queries about specific tests or sampling, please contact the pathologists or ring 01535 692000.