Aquaculture/Fisheries Testing

Providing diagnostic services, applied research and education programs.

Following the discovery of Viral Hemorrhagic Septicemia in the Great Lakes, the VDL recognized a need for facilities capable of providing the testing and research needed by the aquaculture industry. In 2007 we added to our staff Nicholas Phelps, a Certified Fish Health Inspector with a master's degree in aquaculture/fisheries. With his expertise, combined with well-developed diagnostic facilities and laboratory space to allow the holding of live fish, the VDL is now able to provide an unprecedented service to the region.

Through quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (Q-PCR) validation and surveillance, we are assisting the MN Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Department of Agriculture Animal Plant Health Inspection Service to track and monitor disease in the fish population.

We also work closely with government agencies and veterinarians to offer the necessary diagnostic and export testing services for the state's aquaculture industry, hobbyists and natural fisheries.