PyMS review
A focused desktop tool for plotting mycorrhizal colonization data and comparing genotypes.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
PyMS is a desktop graphical application for researchers studying arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi colonization of plant roots. It is aimed at biology users comparing colonization data across genotypes, particularly solo researchers and small teams who want a defined plotting and testing workflow rather than a general statistical environment. The application is open source and offered as a Python package.
Its workflow centers on specially formatted CSV files. Users can group and color colonization data for plots, save the resulting figures, and compare two genotypes with a Mann–Whitney test. For broader genotype comparisons, PyMS offers a Kruskal–Wallis test followed by Dunn post-hoc analysis; test p-values can be saved to a text file. This makes the tool relevant when those plots and tests match the research question. It is not suited to work that depends on regression models, Bayesian analysis, or scripting support.
PyMS keeps its scope narrow, which may suit researchers looking for a graphical route through this specific analysis without a paid plan. That focus also means users needing other statistical methods or a broader data-import workflow should look elsewhere. The latest PyPI release listed is dated April 17, 2019, so researchers should consider the uncertainty around current maintenance and compatibility before adopting it. PyMS is a fit for users whose CSV structure and genotype comparisons align with its documented workflow; it is less appropriate when ongoing compatibility assurance or extensible analysis is a priority.
PyMS pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Plots grouped colonization data with color options and saves figures
- Provides Mann–Whitney and Kruskal–Wallis tests with Dunn post-hoc analysis
- Saves test p-values to a text file; open-source access is free
- Where it doesn't
- Requires specially formatted CSV input
- Limited to specified genotype comparison tests, without regression models
- No scripting support; current maintenance and compatibility are unclear
PyMS fact sheet, pricing and score →
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