UAPB Enhances Aquaculture Support with Expanded APHIS-Certified Fish Health Inspection and Diagnostic Services

The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) is stepping up its game in fish health inspections and disease diagnostics. Under Dr. Grace Ramena’s guidance, the Aquaculture and Fisheries Department is expanding its services certified by the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).

Dr. Ramena, who is both an associate professor and the director of UAPB’s Fish Health Inspection and Diagnostic Program, leads a dedicated team. This includes Kailash Bohara, Zachariah McGowan, Dr. Betty Cheriyan, and Annik Segree. Together, they conduct critical health checks for fish in Arkansas and beyond, ensuring compliance with world standards set by the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) and USDA-APHIS.

The lab at UAPB is authorized to test for several serious pathogens, including viral hemorrhagic septicemia (VHS) and spring viremia of carp virus (SVCV). These are key threats in aquaculture, affecting fish farmers and baitfish industries. Dr. Ramena proudly states that UAPB is the only facility in Arkansas certified to test for these specific pathogens. This development not only speeds up testing but also helps facilitate fish certification for transport, both interstate and internationally.

This improvement is significant for local farmers. Dr. Bruce McGowan emphasizes how these services bolster fish health and disease prevention, ensuring timely certifications that meet market demands. With the recent advancements in molecular diagnostics, UAPB is positioning itself as a leader in aquatic health.

Further data underscores the importance of this initiative. The U.S. aquaculture industry was valued at approximately $1.5 billion in 2020, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). As demand for safe and certified fish continues to rise, UAPB’s efforts become even more essential for sustaining economic growth in this sector.

In a world where diseases can spread quickly, having reliable facilities for testing and diagnostics is crucial. UAPB’s commitment to research and practical support not only safeguards fish health but also strengthens the resilience of aquaculture in Arkansas and across the U.S.

For more insights into fish health and its impact on agriculture, you can explore resources from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

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