03/29/05 Genetic test will screen salmon

University of Idaho scientists at the Hagerman Fish facility have developed a patented genetic test to screen salmon and trout for BKD or bacterial kidney disease. Team leader Matt Powell says the PCR or polymerase chain reaction is like a Xerox test of DNA. It can identify disease-causing agents in the living body fluids without having to destroy the fish prior to spawning. POWELL "When salmon have this they're very, very infectious. They can both transmit the bacteria vertically, pass it from essentially from mother to offspring through the eggs or they can transmit it horizontally in the water. An infected fish in the water will also infect other fish in the water." Powell says they're working on other similar tests that can be used on live fish. POWELL "Its under review at the moment for the most prevalent viral disease in fish called infections hmatopuetic necrosis virus or IHNV." U of I scientists will also submit documents for a patent on a non-destructive genetic test for whirling disease. Voice of Idaho Agriculture Bill Scott