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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Auburn, Alabama » Aquatic Animal Health Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #280971
Title: Columnaris Disease

Author
item Lafrentz, Benjamin
item GOODWIN, ANDREW - University Of Arkansas
item Shoemaker, Craig

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 6/21/2012
Publication Date: 12/20/2012
Citation: Lafrentz, B.R., Goodwin, A.E., Shoemaker, C.A. 2012. Columnaris Disease. In: AFS-FHS (American Fisheries Society-Fish Health Section). FHS blue book: suggested procedures for the detection and identification of certain finfish and shellfish pathogens. AFS-FHS. Bethesda, Maryland. chap. 1.2.3.

Interpretive Summary: Columnaris disease is caused by the Gram-negative bacterium, Flavobacterium columnare. The disease was first described in 1917-1919 in the United States and the bacterium was not successfully isolated and grown in the laboratory until 1944. Columnaris disease continues to be a prevalent disease of cultured and wild freshwater fish species worldwide. In this chapter, columnaris disease is reviewed with an emphasis on the distribution, factors involved in the occurrence and spread of disease, disease signs, diagnosis, detection, and identification of F. columnare. This book chapter is intended for fish health personnel and others interested in a greater understanding of columnaris disease and the procedures used for the detection and identification of the causative agent, including diagnosticians, hatchery personnel, and students.

Technical Abstract: Columnaris disease is caused by the Gram-negative bacterium, Flavobacterium columnare. The disease was first described in 1917-1919 in the United States and the bacterium was not successfully isolated and grown in the laboratory until 1944. Columnaris disease continues to be a prevalent disease of cultured and wild freshwater fish species worldwide. In this chapter, columnaris disease is reviewed with an emphasis on the distribution, factors involved in the occurrence and spread of disease, disease signs, diagnosis, detection, and identification of F. columnare. This book chapter is intended for fish health personnel and others interested in a greater understanding of columnaris disease and the procedures used for the detection and identification of the causative agent, including diagnosticians, hatchery personnel, and students.