Quaglio - Laboratory Techniques and Biosecurity Flashcards
What are the common laboratory techniques used in fish pathology?
- Histopathology
- Bacteriology
- Molecular diagnostics (e.g., PCR)
- Microscopy and staining
- Culture and sensitivity testing
These techniques are essential for diagnosing diseases and understanding fish health.
What is histopathology, and why is it important in fish pathology?
- Examining tissues microscopically for cellular abnormalities
- Identifies infections, granulomas, and tissue necrosis
Histopathology helps in understanding disease mechanisms and assessing tissue damage.
What stains are commonly used in fish histopathology?
- Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) for general tissue structure
- Ziehl-Neelsen for mycobacteria
- PAS (Periodic Acid-Schiff) for fungal elements
These stains highlight different cellular components and organisms in tissue samples.
What is the role of bacteriology in fish pathology?
- Culturing bacteria to identify causative agents
- Determines antibiotic sensitivity for effective treatment
Bacteriology is crucial for diagnosing bacterial infections and guiding treatment.
What culture media are used for fish bacteriology?
- TSA (Tryptic Soy Agar)
- Blood Agar for hemolytic bacteria
- Marine Agar for saltwater pathogens
- TCBS Agar for Vibrio species
Different media support the growth of specific bacteria relevant to fish diseases.
What is molecular diagnostics, and how is it used in fish pathology?
- Techniques like PCR detect specific DNA/RNA of pathogens
- Provides rapid and accurate identification of diseases
Molecular diagnostics enable the detection of pathogens that are difficult to culture.
What is the purpose of antibiotic sensitivity testing?
- Determines the most effective antibiotics
- Helps reduce the risk of antibiotic resistance
This testing is vital for selecting appropriate treatments for bacterial infections.
What is the significance of wet mount microscopy in fish diagnostics?
- Identifies parasites and fungal elements
- Used to examine skin, gills, and fin samples
Wet mounts are a quick method for assessing external infections.
How are samples collected for laboratory analysis in fish pathology?
- Tissues (liver, kidney, spleen) for histology
- Skin scrapes or gill clips for microscopy
- Swabs of lesions for bacteriology or molecular tests
Proper sample collection is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
What are the steps for sample preservation in fish pathology?
- Fix tissues in 10% neutral buffered formalin for histopathology
- Refrigerate or freeze samples for bacteriology and molecular analysis
- Use sterile containers and avoid contamination
Sample preservation maintains the integrity of specimens for analysis.
What is biosecurity, and why is it critical in aquaculture?
- A set of practices to prevent disease introduction and spread
- Ensures the health and productivity of fish stocks
Biosecurity measures are essential for sustainable aquaculture operations.
What are the key components of biosecurity in aquaculture?
- Quarantine new fish stocks
- Disinfect equipment and water systems
- Control access to facilities
- Maintain high water quality
These components work together to minimize disease risks.
What is the purpose of quarantine in biosecurity?
- Isolates new or diseased fish to prevent disease spread
- Allows for observation and treatment of latent infections
Quarantine is a proactive measure to protect fish populations.
How is equipment sanitized in aquaculture biosecurity?
- Use disinfectants like chlorine, iodine, or peracetic acid
- Rinse thoroughly to avoid residues harmful to fish
Proper sanitation of equipment is critical to prevent cross-contamination.
What role does water quality monitoring play in biosecurity?
- Prevents stress-induced diseases by maintaining optimal conditions
- Reduces pathogen proliferation in tanks or ponds
Good water quality is vital for fish health and disease prevention.
What is the significance of controlling stocking density?
- Prevents overcrowding, reducing stress and disease risk
- Ensures even distribution of resources like oxygen and space
Proper stocking density supports fish welfare and health.
How are PCR tests used in fish pathology?
- Amplify specific DNA/RNA sequences of pathogens
- Detect viruses, bacteria, and protozoans rapidly and accurately
PCR is a powerful tool for diagnosing infections in fish.
What are the advantages of molecular diagnostics over traditional methods?
- High sensitivity and specificity
- Faster results compared to culture-based methods
- Identifies non-culturable pathogens
Molecular diagnostics offer significant benefits in pathogen detection.
What is the purpose of disinfecting transport water for fish?
- Prevents introduction of pathogens during fish transport
- Reduces the risk of disease outbreaks
Disinfecting transport water is crucial for maintaining fish health during transit.
How can stress during sampling be minimized?
- Handle fish gently and avoid overcrowding
- Use anesthetics like MS-222 to reduce physical and physiological stress
Minimizing stress during sampling ensures better health outcomes.
What are the challenges of maintaining biosecurity in large-scale aquaculture?
- Difficulty in monitoring all entry points for pathogens
- High cost of implementing biosecurity measures
- Risks from wild fish and birds as vectors
Large-scale operations face unique biosecurity challenges that require careful management.
What is the role of vaccination in aquaculture biosecurity?
- Provides protection against specific bacterial and viral diseases
- Reduces the need for antibiotics
Vaccination is a key strategy for disease prevention in fish farming.
What are common disinfectants used in aquaculture?
- Chlorine
- Iodine compounds
- Quaternary ammonium compounds
- Hydrogen peroxide
These disinfectants are used to maintain biosecurity in aquaculture settings.
What is the importance of record-keeping in biosecurity?
- Tracks fish health and treatments
- Identifies patterns or trends in disease outbreaks
- Ensures regulatory compliance
Effective record-keeping supports management decisions and biosecurity measures.
How does biosecurity reduce antibiotic usage?
- Prevents diseases through proactive measures, reducing the need for antibiotics
- Helps control the spread of resistant pathogens
Reducing antibiotic use is vital for sustainable aquaculture practices.
What are the key steps for disinfecting tanks and ponds?
- Drain and clean the tank/pond to remove debris
- Apply disinfectants and allow contact time
- Rinse thoroughly before refilling with clean water
Proper disinfection of tanks and ponds is essential for preventing disease outbreaks.
How is disease monitoring conducted in aquaculture?
- Routine health checks and environmental monitoring
- Use of diagnostic tests for early detection
- Isolating and treating infected fish promptly
Regular monitoring is crucial for maintaining fish health and preventing outbreaks.
What is the role of aquaculture certification in biosecurity?
- Ensures adherence to health and safety standards
- Promotes sustainable and responsible farming practices
Certification programs help improve biosecurity measures in aquaculture.
What factors should be considered when selecting disinfectants?
- Spectrum of activity (bacteria, viruses, fungi)
- Safety for fish and humans
- Environmental impact
Selecting appropriate disinfectants is critical for effective biosecurity.
How does maintaining optimal nutrition support biosecurity?
- Enhances fish immunity to resist infections
- Reduces susceptibility to stress-related diseases
- Promotes faster recovery from infections
Proper nutrition is a foundational aspect of fish health management.
