I am trying examine the small components in faecal virome by ultrafiltrating a fecal suspension to remove the bacteria and afterwards staining with fluorophores (eg. SYBR Gold). My primary interest is to visualize the bacteriophages in the fecal virome. However, I cannot be sure that what I stain with SYBR Gold is bacteriophages, as it would also stain free DNA and bacteria spores in the fecal ultrafiltrate.

Therefore, I need a marker, that is specific for all kinds of bacteriophages, but does not bind spores and free DNA. Does a bacteriophage specific fluorophore like this exist?

I hope you can help,

Nina