Heather McLetchie

My research involves the development of diagnostic molecular tests for the identification of two oomycete diseases.

Epizootic Ulcerative Syndrome (Aphanomyces invadans) an endemic disease of freshwater and estuarine fish, the disease causes unsightly lesions on the fish which render them unsaleable.

Crayfish Plague (Aphanomyces astaci) which is an exotic disease to Australia and causes total mortality of freshwater crayfish in an infected waterway.

Current diagnosis of these diseases is very time consuming (~2 weeks) and PCR and Real-Time PCR from clinical samples would be of benefit.

Collaborators:

Department of Agriculture WA - Nicky Buller

Department of Fisheries WA - Fish Health Section (Whole Department)

The Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (CEFAS) - UK

Australian Animal Health Laboratories (AAHL)