Aquatic Disease Diagnostic Commercial Services

Our Aquatic Disease Diagnostic Commercial Services encompass health assessment and pathogen detection using an optimum mix of conventional and novel methods. We use predictive models that integrate these diagnostic methods to characterise ‘normal’ health and identify the causal linkages between host, pathogen and environment during disease progression. Finally, we provide management solutions that draw upon the diagnosis and predictive steps, to develop prevention and early warning surveillance solutions to aquaculture health problems.

Aquaculture Biosecurity

Cawthron works closely with the aquaculture industry to mitigate and manage marine pest and disease issues.

Current projects include:

• research into the biology and management of the oyster herpes virus (OsHV-1)
• characterisation of biofouling patterns and environmental drivers on mussel and salmon farms
• development of novel mitigation tools to manage problematic pests
• development of tools to manage industry risk pathways (e.g. seed-stock transfers)
• assessment of existing and emerging pest and disease threats to New Zealand shellfish aquaculture.

Pest and Disease Risk Assessments

We provide aquaculture industry clients with in-depth analyses of the risks represented by aquatic pests and diseases. We are experts in the development of mitigation and management strategies that employ the fundamental principles of pathway management and good monitoring and reporting practices. This safeguards our industry against incursions by new pathogens or disease outbreaks caused by those already present in New Zealand’s marine environment.

Pharmaceutical trials

Cawthron is equipped to conduct pharmaceutical trials for finfish and shellfish, including all three of New Zealand’s key aquaculture species (mussels, oysters and salmon).