AimsCattle are the main reservoir of verocytotoxigenic Escherichia coli (VTEC), food-borne pathogens that express verocytotoxins (vtx) encoded by temperate bacteriophage. Bovine faeces and unturned manure heaps can support the survival of VTEC and may propagate and transmit VTEC. This study investigated the survival of a vtx2 bacteriophage, 24(B)::Kan, in bovine faeces and slurry. The survival of an anti-Escherichia coli O157:H7 lytic bacteriophage, e11/2, was examined in the same matrices, as a possible bio-control option for VTEC. Methods and ResultsSamples were inoculated with 24(B)::Kan and/or e11/2 bacteriophage at a concentration of 7-8log(10)PFUg(-1)(faeces) or ml(-1) (slurry), stored at 4 and 14 degrees C and examined every 2 days for 36days. The ability of phi 24(B)::Kan to transduce E.coli cells was examined. Moreover, E.coli concentrations in the faeces and slurry were monitored throughout the experiment as were the pH and a(w) (faeces only). Both bacteriophages survived well in faeces and slurry. In addition, phi 24(B)::Kan was able to form lysogens. Conclusions phi 24(B)::Kan and e11/2 phage can survive and remain infective in bovine faeces and slurry for at least 30days under representative Irish temperatures. Significance and Impact of the StudyBovine faeces and slurry may act as a reservoir for vtx bacteriophages. The survival of the anti-O157 phage suggests it may be a suitable bio-control option in these matrices.