Norwegian Veterinary Institute Designated as WOAH Reference Laboratory for Crayfish Plague
The Norwegian Veterinary Institute (NVI) has officially been designated as the WOAH Reference Laboratory for crayfish plague (Aphanomyces astaci).
This appointment is a recognition of the institute’s long-standing efforts in research, diagnostics, and surveillance of crayfish plague, a devastating crayfish disease caused by the oomycete Aphanomyces astaci. The Norwegian Veterinary Institute has been working on the disease since the first outbreak in Norway in 1971 and currently serves as the national reference laboratory for crustacean diseases.
Senior Research Scientist David A. Strand has been appointed as the WOAH Reference Expert. He leads the national surveillance program for Aphanomyces astaci, which uses environmental DNA (eDNA) to detect the crayfish plague pathogen in affected lakes and river systems. eDNA-based surveillance has replaced earlier monitoring methods based on caging experiments, where noble crayfish were placed in cages to monitor the disease. The surveillance program is conducted annually and is an important tool for protecting vulnerable noble crayfish populations.
The Norwegian Veterinary Institute has played a key role in the development of molecular methods for detecting crayfish plague, including qPCR-based assays that have been adopted internationally and incorporated into WOAH standards and eDNA surveillance protocols. The institute also collaborates closely with leading research groups across Europe and globally to improve disease diagnostics and management.
As a WOAH Reference Laboratory, the Norwegian Veterinary Institute will provide scientific and technical support to member countries, including diagnostics, training, and expert advice related to crayfish plague.
The designation highlights the Norwegian Veterinary Institute’s commitment to protecting aquatic biodiversity and strengthening international collaboration in animal health.
