Work

Duplex PCR method for simultaneous detection of scale drop disease virus and Vibrio harveyi in Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer)

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Scale drop disease virus (SDDV) and Vibrio harveyi are important infectious agents affecting farmed Asian seabass ( Lates calcarifer ). Fish infected with these pathogens usually exhibit similar clinical signs, making differential diagnosis challenging. This study aimed to develop a duplex PCR protocol for the simultaneous detection of both pathogens in farmed Asian seabass. The newly developed method demonstrated high sensitivity (20 copies per reaction) and high specificity with no cross-amplification observed. It successfully detected infections in clinical samples (n = 42) and revealed co-infections in 11/42 samples. This duplex PCR protocol offers a useful molecular tool for detecting individual or concurrent infections, thereby contributing to enhanced disease diagnosis, surveillance and monitoring in Asian seabass aquaculture. • Simultaneous detection of SDDV and V. harveyi in a single PCR reaction • High sensitivity and specificity without cross-reactivity • Applicable to clinical samples for confirmatory disease diagnosis

Source: MethodsX

DOI: 10.1016/j.mex.2026.104208