Experimental exposure to low concentrations of Neoparamoeba perurans induces amoebic gill disease in Atlantic salmon

Amoebic gill disease (AGD) is a significant issue in Atlantic salmon mariculture. Research on the development of treatments or vaccines uses experimental challenges where salmon is exposed to amoebae concentrations ranging from 500 to 5,000/L. However, the water concentrations of N. perurans on affected salmon farms are much lower. The lowest concentration of N. perurans previously reported to cause AGD was 10/L. Here, we report that concentrations as low as 0.1/L of N. perurans can cause AGD. We propose that concentrations of N. perurans that reflect those measured on salmon farms should be used for future experimental challenges.

Automated summary

Research has found that concentrations as low as 0.1/L of N. perurans can cause AGD, compared to the higher concentrations previously used in studies. It is suggested that concentrations of N. perurans measured on salmon farms should be used for future experimental challenges.