A feed truck supplying a fish pond.
Collaborative research demonstrated selective breeding of tilapia for disease resistance is possible for both S. iniae and S. agalactiae (major tilapia pathogens worldwide). For more information read the ARS article "A Big Step towards Reducing Strep in Farm-Raised Tilapia".
Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (white spot or ICH) a parasite can act as a vector for Edwardsiella ictaluri (bacteria causing enteric septicemia of catfish [ESC]) in channel catfish. The photograph shows fluorescent Edwardsiella ictaluri attached to the free swimming stage of ICH.
Colonies of Flavobacterium columnare, a Gram-negative bacteria, that causes columnaris disease in farm raised fish. Columnaris disease is a leading cause of mortality in catfish aquaculture.
Mission
To meet the needs for continued growth and sustainability of the aquaculture industry and to increase its profitability, biological control strategies are being developed that will prevent large economic losses in the aquaculture industry caused by diseases and parasites. The specific research objectives of the unit's prevention program are development of vaccines, rapid detection tests and fish diets that will enhance disease resistance to infectious bacteria and parasites. The Unit's research also determines pathogen and host factors that influence virulence and immune response.