Understanding Pathogenesis and Transmission Dynamics of Oyster Herpes Virus

Carolyn Friedman, School of Aquatic & Fishery Sciences, University of Washington; Kimberley Reece and Eugene Burreson, Virginia Institute of Marine Science; and Ralph Elston, Pacific Shellfish Institute

R/F-157

The ability to produce, transport and market healthy disease-free shellfish is crucial to the success of the U.S. oyster industry. The appearance of herpes-like viral infections in Californian, Asian and European oyster stocks is threatening the industry and has jeopardized the existing international market for oyster seed.  For this project, team members will devise reliable diagnostic methods for oyster herpes.  The differential susceptibility of several oyster species to herpes-like viruses will be evaluated, and techniques for identifying infected stocks as well as maintaining and storing cultures of the virus will be examined.  Project results will empower resource managers and aquaculturists to make educated decisions on the management and culture of oyster populations.