Methods, apparatus, and systems to extract and quantify minute objects from soil or feces, including plant-parasitic nematode pests and their eggs in soil

Abstract

A system, method, and apparatus for quantification of pre-determined particles in a soil or feces sample with certain automated steps. In one aspect it includes an input station for inputting a soil or feces sample; a sieving/filtering station for separating soil or feces from particles or particle carriers, and/or separating particle carriers from particles; and a collection station for receiving the extracted particles. It can include quantification of the collected sample with an imaging station to digitally image the particles and recognize and count the particles collected. A mechanism can mechanically move the filtered particles from the sieve/filter station to the collection station. A controller can be programmed to automatically control at least certain functions of the mechanism. An optional feature includes acquisition of chemical, biological, physical, or other parameters of the sample with one or more sensors positioned or positionable at the sample.