Project Number: 6420-32000-022-06
Project Type: Nonfunded Cooperative Agreement

Start Date: Jun 01, 2007
End Date: May 31, 2009

Objective:
There is a lack of knowledge of the pathogenesis (i.e. mechanisms of disease) of aquatic animal pathogens. Basic information is needed on the source of infection (i.e. water, wildlife, carrier fish, agriculture), modes of transmission (i.e. vertical from mother to offspring or horizontal from fish to fish), routes of entry (i.e. gills or nares), mechanisms of pathogen virulence, host immune response and the influences of toxic algae, water quality and other environmental factors on host immune system and disease transmission. The histological effects of plant based diets fed to fish are poorly understood. The objectives of this research are to provide increased knowledge of the pathogenesis of disease, immunity and nutrition through histological techniques.

Approach:
Milestones/Deliverables - Conduct studies to assess bacterial transmission, the relationship between stress and bacterial infection in aquatic animals, and optimal nutritional diets. Methods will be explored to study the influence of dual infectons (bacteria and parasites) on the health of aquatic animals (2007 - 2008). Studies will be initiated on vertical transmission (i.e. from brood fish ot offspring) of bacterial pathogens FY 2007 - 2008). Studies evaluating cottonseed meal and distillers grain solubles will ensue.