Lewis J Braithwaite
Lewis is a plant pathologist at Plant Diagnostics Limited, specializing in fungal and oomycete plant pathogen identification using both morphological and molecular techniques, including PCR and DNA sequencing. He provides diagnostic expertise across horticulture, arable crops, and turf, assisting growers, industry representatives, and researchers in plant disease management.
His work encompasses plant disease diagnosis, pathogenicity testing, disease assessments for fungicide trials, and pathogen monitoring. With a strong focus on delivering science-based, reliable results, he supports informed decision-making for effective disease control. Lewis has a particular interest in oomycete identification, such as Phytophthora, and has contributed to the identification of several species new to New Zealand.
Additionally, he works on the detection of viral pathogens in cereals and beet using PCR. He has also been involved in industry-led projects, including an investigation into young tree decline in avocado.
Abstracts this author is presenting: