Rapid Detection Kits (RDK) of bacterial pathogens in freshwater tilapia aquaculture have been successfully pilot-tested in seven diagnostic centers and laboratories in five provinces of Luzon.
In 2019, the project, “Development of Colloidal Gold Nanoparticles (AuNPs) Immune Assay for Rapid Detection of Bacterial Pathogens in Freshwater Tilapia Aquaculture,” was implemented by Central Luzon State University to produce an effective and efficient detection kit for major bacterial pathogens in tilapia aquaculture. With its completion, it developed Rapid Detection kits ready for pilot testing. The said project is funded by the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PCAARRD).
As part of its continued initiative, DOST-PCAARRD funded the project, “Pilot Testing on the Use of Nanogold-based DNA Probe Rapid Detection Kit for Aeromonas hydrophila.” Led by Dr. Karl Marx Quiazon of the Central Luzon State University, the project primarily aimed to produce a refined, user-friendly nanogold-based Rapid Detection Kit for Aeromonas hydrophila, one of the bacterial pathogens infecting tilapia.
Developed Rapid Detection Kits (RDK) for bacterial pathogens, aiming to help prevent fish mortality in early stages.
A total of 250 DNA extracts were tested using the detection kit. With this, three additional versions of the RDK with higher sensitivity were developed. These versions were tailored based on feedback derived from the pilot testing conducted.
The RDK was pilot tested in the diagnostic laboratories of its collaborating agencies (Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources regional offices, Pampanga State Agricultural University, and Isabela State University) in the provinces of Pampanga, Laguna, Batangas, Nueva Ecija, and Isabela.
As issues regarding tilapia disease outbreaks caused by bacterial pathogens persist and existing disease diagnosis tools remain expensive and require experts to operate, the RDK has been seen to be more affordable and user-friendly. This will prove advantageous for small, medium, and large-scale fish farmers.
To benefit more the tilapia farmers, the RDK is being refined and improved to prepare and nurture its market potential.