In addition to traditional farming systems (natural ponds or raceways), the diverse aquaculture landscape in Germany also favours new forms of farming (e.g. recirculating aquaculture systems). In addition to the associated technical challenges, new disease-related issues (e.g. infections with sturgeon herpes viruses) are also arising due to the new fish species being kept (tilapia, African catfish, sturgeon). The pathogenesis and prevention of infectious diseases in fish species are of great importance in this context. Other topics (e.g. species-appropriate nutrition or animal welfare analyses using AI) are also relevant. In the area of crustaceans and molluscs, the primary focus is on the diagnosis of listed animal disease pathogens. In order to clarify suspected cases of disease, we utilise histological and advanced molecular biological examination methods.
Research priorities
The laboratory's primary focus is on the development of innovative approaches for the early detection of diseases, including the utilisation of advanced diagnostics and AI-driven disease detection methods. Additionally, it investigates newly emerging pathogens and explores new strategies for combating animal diseases, such as developing novel vaccination strategies and decontamination methods. Furthermore, the organisation is responsible for the diagnosis of listed crustacean and mollusc diseases.