Onda Expands Tenacibaculum Study Models to Enhance Global Aquaculture Health
March 2024 marked a significant milestone for Onda as it became the first company to introduce a pioneering Tenacibaculosis Challenge Model, aiming to affect real-world outcomes in aquaculture health. As the largest aquatic containment facility specializing in aquaculture research, Onda recently announced the launch of two new disease study models focusing on Tenacibaculum dicentrarchi and Tenacibaculum finnmarkense. This expansion complements Onda’s existing challenge models, offering science-driven tools to tackle Tenacibaculum, a critical bacterial challenge faced by the global aquaculture industry.
The Challenge of Fish Health in Aquaculture
Addressing fish health challenges in the aquaculture sector is notoriously complex. Pathogens like Tenacibaculum pose significant obstacles due to their multifaceted nature. Unlike diseases caused by single strains, Tenacibaculum includes numerous species, each affecting various regions and host fish species distinctly. This variability makes both prevention and treatment notably challenging.
The severe lesions caused by Tenacibaculum lead to welfare issues and substantial mortality rates, emphasizing the urgent need for dependable study models and innovative health solutions. These tools are crucial for protecting fish stocks and ensuring industry sustainability.
A Leader in Aquaculture Research
Onda was the first contract research organization (CRO) to develop a comprehensive model for Tenacibaculum maritimum, recognizing a significant gap in the market for testing effective solutions. The addition of T. dicentrarchi and T. finnmarkense models empowers Onda to assist producers and innovators, particularly in regions severely impacted by these strains, such as salmon farming areas in Chile, Norway, Canada, and Northern Europe. “These new models illuminate the path forward, transforming complexity into clarity in the battle against tenacibaculosis,” stated Dr. Fabio Zanuzzo, Director of Aquatic Animal Health at Onda.
The Economic Impact of Tenacibaculum Infections
Aquaculture producers are under increasing pressure to manage intricate fish health challenges, with Tenacibaculum infections being some of the most costly. Outbreaks can lead to rapid stock losses, skyrocketing treatment costs, and significant declines in productivity. For the salmon industry alone, these infections are estimated to cost tens of millions of dollars each year, underscoring the need for reliable models and innovative health solutions to help preserve fish welfare and maintain a steady market supply.
Innovating Solutions for a Healthier Future
In the quest to develop effective vaccines, treatments, and management strategies, access to controlled and reliable study models is paramount. Onda’s expanded Tenacibaculum platform equips aquaculture companies, biotech innovators, and feed manufacturers with vital tools to assess potential products under conditions that simulate real-world challenges.
“These new models underscore Onda’s commitment to tackling the most pressing health challenges in the aquaculture sector,” remarked Myrna Gillis, Onda’s CEO. “By providing robust research platforms, we facilitate our clients in bringing effective solutions to market more expeditiously, thereby nurturing healthier fish, stronger businesses, and a more sustainable food supply.”
About Onda
Onda Research is a leading contract research organization with a focus on aquaculture research and trials. The company offers tailored bench top and in-tank trials for various species at its Souris and Victoria, PEI locations, delivering customized solutions to meet clients’ unique challenges with the utmost industry expertise. Onda holds an array of certifications, including GLP, GMP, ACQ3, and ACQ2, ensuring that its tailored services are integrated with the highest standards of quality. Onda prides itself on quality, consistency, and reliability in every client interaction, providing expertise, guidance, and support throughout the product licensing process.
