Public taxon detections (British Isles)

TaxaScreen® Crayfish plague

Aphanomyces astaci
Category: Pathogen
Habitat: Freshwater

Turnaround time: 5 business days

Crayfish plague (Aphanomyces astaci) is a devastating fungal-like pathogen that has severely impacted native crayfish populations in the UK, particularly the endangered white-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes). Introduced via invasive signal crayfish (Pacifastacus leniusculus), which are carriers of the disease, the pathogen spreads rapidly in freshwater systems, causing mass mortalities among native crayfish. The pathogen disrupts ecosystems by decimating populations of a keystone species, making its detection and management a critical conservation priority.
January, February, March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
Zoospore release is linked to host activity and water temperature. Best eDNA detection probability is between May and September when crayfish are active at 12-18C. Sample downstream of signal crayfish populations.
Which sampling kit will I need to buy?

We sell our sampling kits separately from our testing so that our clients have maximum flexibility.

This test needs one of:

 
We are also able to accept sampling kits from other companies for this test. 

As soon as your order is received our system emails you a sample submission form for this test. Please check your junk mail if you haven’t received it within a few minutes of your order. 

The email comes with full instructions for submitting your sample to us to ensure the best quality testing. 

You will receive your results in your online account

The testing for detection of this species is carried out via real-time PCR (qPCR), which has the greatest sensitivity and specificity of all eDNA detection methods. 

For customers without a business account we accept pre-payment with a debit or credit card. 

For customers who have a business account we are able to offer terms, purchase orders, credit/debit card payments and invoicing payment options. You can apply for a business account at the same time as you register for an account at checkout.

If you have any questions about sampling strategy, panel suitability, or anything else, book a free consultation with one of our molecular ecologists.