Quantitative PCR for Tenacibaculum dicentrarchi and T. finnmarkense

Numerous Tenacibaculum species, including T. dicentrarchi, T. maritimum and T. finnmarkense, are associated with tenacibaculosis in finfish; however, quantitative identification techniques are limited. Quantitative PCR assays were developed to detect T. dicentrarchi and T. finnmarkense. TaqMan assays using 16S rDNA demonstrated low detection limits (0.07-269 bacteria), suitable amplification efficiencies (>86%) and moderate specificity. However, the amplification of isolates with 100% sequence similarity to T. finnmarkense AY7486TD using both the T. finnmarkense and T. dicentrarchi assays indicates that other genes should be investigated. Both assays may help describe the pathogenesis of tenacibaculosis and may aid management practices for the aquaculture industry.

Automated summary

Quantitative PCR assays were developed for detecting Tenacibaculum species, showing low detection limits and suitable amplification efficiencies, but further investigation into other genes is needed. These assays may help elucidate the pathogenesis of tenacibaculosis and aid management practices in the aquaculture industry.