Isolates of the fungus Fusarium oxysporum cause some of the most devastating plant diseases, leading to
significant crop losses in both the greenhouse nursery and field environments. Because of this, tools that
permit early pathogen detection are essential. This study develops such a tool. A specific primer set (FOX
S and FOX R) and TaqMan probe (FOX TM) for F. oxysporum quantification were developed from an SCAR
marker derived from RAPD-PCR. This system was used to monitor the presence of F. oxysporum in the
substrate and the vegetative tissue of melon seedlings growing under greenhouse conditions. Detection
and quantification data were obtained within 48 h with the new technique, compared to 5e6 days for
the classical plate culture method, while also providing greater specificity and sensitivity.