Challenge models are reproducible methods developed through research to infect fish with different micro-organisms. They are used to test the effect of vaccines and immune stimulants in fish and which effect sub-optimal farming conditions have on the resistance against infection. Nofima's modern and well-equipped Tromsø Aquaculture Research Station features a fish health laboratory, which is approved for challenge experiments and GMO experiments. Atlantic salmon used in the experiments are produced at the station from embryo, while the cod come from local fry producers or are produced at the station.
We currently offer challenge models for:
Atlantic salmon in seawater:
- IPN: (infectious pancreatic necrosis) bath challenge
- ISA: (infectious salmon anaemia) cohabitant challenge
- Winter ulcer: (Moritella viscosa) bath challenge
- Sea lice: bath challenge with Lepeophtheirus salmonis
Cod in seawater:
- Classical vibrosis: (Vibrio anguillarum 02a and 02b) bath challenge
We also have competence in other challenge models of diseases in both Atlantic salmon and marine fish species, for instance infectious salmon anaemia-ISA (orthomyxoviridae virus), viral nervous necrosis VNN (Noda virus), Vibriosis (Vibrio salmonicida and Vibrio anguillarum 01, 02a and 02b) and typical and atypical Furunculosis (Atypical Aeromonas salmonicida).
