What Panta Germ analyzes for you
Panta Germ (Germ = Keim in German) is a way to determine the bacteriological development and status quo of the bacterial community in an aquatic system (aquarium, aquaculture facility, natural swimming pool, pond, etc.). The composition of bacteria in aquatic systems is of particular importance in order to be able to assess possible effects on the health of living organisms. Currently, however, water quality is usually only described on the basis of physical (e.g. density, conductivity, temperature) and chemical parameters (e.g. pH value, macro, micro, trace elements), which means that the equally relevant microbiology and the associated bacteria receive little attention. In this context, both the total number of bacteria in the water and the composition of the different types of bacteria in the water and in the biofilm are decisive. Bacterial communities can be beneficial to the animals kept if they have a favorable composition. However, if the composition is unfavorable or the levels of individual species are high, they can negatively affect the aquatic system and then become harmful to the health of aquatic animals. With the help of the Panta Germ Test, the bacterial community is examined more closely and the total bacterial count in the water, the bacterial community of the water and the bacterial community organized as a biofilm on surfaces are determined.
water microbiome
Analysis of the bacterial community in free water. Essential examination to record the current state of a system and to detect changes in water quality at an early stage. This allows targeted measures to be taken to optimize the system.
Biofilm microbiome
Analysis of the bacterial community in the biofilm. Most bacteria in aquatic holding facilities are organized in biofilms located at all points of contact of water-covered surfaces. Biofilms are therefore hotspots of microbial activity. They influence material cycles, water quality and the spread of potentially harmful germs. Only by understanding them can well-founded measures to improve and stabilize the system be implemented.
Sampling
The Panta Germ Test provides a complete picture of the total bacterial count and bacterial composition in your system – reliably, quickly and practically. For the analysis of the water, a sample is passed through a special filter on which the bacteria it contains collect. This allows us to accurately determine the total bacterial count and the structure of the bacterial community. To examine the biofilm, it is gently removed from a surface in the water with a cotton swab. Both the filter and the cotton swab are then sent back to our laboratory.
Laboratory analysis
In our laboratory, both samples are carefully prepared and analyzed using state-of-the-art molecular biological methods. This allows the total bacterial count to be precisely determined and the composition of the bacterial community in the water and biofilm to be reliably recorded. After completion of the analysis, the data obtained is assigned to your individual profile and clearly presented in a report.
Report & Interpretation
Structured results report with detailed bacterial profile, precise diversity indicators and clear graphics. Complemented by clear instructions that enable you to use the results specifically for optimization, risk minimization and sustainable control of your system – for more security, efficiency and long-term stability.
Panta Germ Report – everything at a glance
A Panta Germ report offers you a comprehensive overview of the microbiological situation of your aquatic system. All information is processed in such a way that it can be used directly for your system evaluation and optimization. The report contains:
- Bacterial profile: Representation of the composition of the bacterial community in water and biofilm
- Total bacterial count: Quantitative information on the bacterial load
- Diversity indicators: Assessment of the biodiversity of bacteria in the system
- Graphical preparation: Diagrams and visualizations for a quick overview
- Interpretation & Recommendations for action: Concrete indications of conspicuous dominances or gaps in the system as well as suggestions for optimizing, controlling and minimizing the risk of your system
Universal application possibilities of the Panta Germ Test
Whether aquaculture, sophisticated private aquarium, garden pond, import company, koi pond, natural water, public show aquarium, swimming pond, pond farming or breeding facility – the Panta Germ Test can be used in all aquatic systems to reliably determine the bacterial community.
For most systems, a regular implementation as monitoring is recommended in order to permanently monitor system health. A one-time test only makes sense in exceptional cases. If you are unsure or have questions about the application, our customer service is always available.
Make the microbiome visible
Panta Germ determines the bacterial community in your system and thus ideally complements the usual water analyses such as ICPs. You can see which bacteria dominate and how balanced the microbiome in your system is.
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Document changes
By repeating measurements, you can understand how stable the microbiome in your system is and how the microbiome develops after measures such as filter changes, stock changes or the use of medication.
Better evaluate measures
The combination of the microbiome data and your information about your system helps you to make more informed decisions – for example, when optimizing husbandry conditions.
From a single sample to comprehensive monitoring
With the Panta Germ Test you can precisely record the bacterial community in your system – be it in the water or in the biofilm. For initial assessments, a single microbiome analysis is often sufficient, while for more comprehensive considerations several samples can be combined in order to assess the system holistically.
For larger projects, public facilities or research collaborations, measurement series can be planned in which samples are taken at regular intervals or after defined events. This creates a time course that shows how stable a system really is and when targeted countermeasures make sense.
Regardless of the scope of the analyses, you will always receive a structured report that presents the complex data in an understandable way – always related to the specific question in your system.
Do you have any questions about the Panta Germ Test?
Would you like to know whether a Panta Germ Test makes sense for your system – or start with an initial microbiome check? We would be happy to support you with the planning or answer your open questions.
