Aquatic organisms' health, welfare, and biosecurity

S2AQUAcoLAB's multidisciplinary team, with specialisations covering ecology, pathology, microbiology, molecular biology and functional biology, offers a range of services that provide producers with problem-solving tools and support in implementing good practices for the health, welfare and safety of the organisms produced. In this way, production losses can be prevented, market value preserved and product safety and food quality guaranteed.

List of services

• In vivo and in vitro pathogen challenges for the assessment of mitigation strategies;
• Analysis of biochemical, osmoregulatory, and hematological parameters;
• Analysis of immunological, general, and oxidative stress parameters using biochemical and genetic expression assessments;
• Evaluation of bioaccumulation and physiological impacts on organisms exposed to chemical compounds;
• Analysis of bone deformities in fish larvae and post-larvae;
• Pathological examination of marine organisms;
• Identification of bacteria through biochemical methods;
• Identification of ectoparasites based on morphological characteristics;
• Early detection of pathogens such as bacteria, parasites, and viruses through molecular biology techniques.

 Some available pathogens*

• Bacteria: Vibrio spp., Photobacterium damselae subsp. piscicida, Tenacibaculum maritimum, Aeromonas spp. e Pseudomonas spp.;
• Parasites: Amyloodinium ocellatum, Neoparamoeba perurans, Diplectanum aequans e Sparicotyle chrysophrii;
• Viruses: Betanodavirus e Norovirus.
  (*Protocols for other species can be developed upon request)

Applications

• Ensure timely diagnosis to enhance the efficacy of mitigation strategies;
• Choose healthy larvae and juveniles to guarantee the procurement of quality batches;
• Promoting improved farming and animal welfare practices;
• Ensure the quality and food safety of products on the market.