Bitter crab disease (BCD) is an epizootic condition currently affecting over 40 species of marine Crustacea worldwide, with the potential to spread to even more species. The causative agent, a parasitic dinoflagellate of the genus Hematodinium, reproduces in the blood and gives the cooked meat an aspirin tablet-like flavour. After initial transmission, the parasite grows exponentially for up to 6 weeks, causing lethargy and weakness within the host, ultimately resulting in death. BCD is therefore decreasing marketable crab populations and affecting product quality of all infected species, including snow crabs (an important commercial and recreational fishery in Newfoundland and Labrador). To date there have been several molecular diagnostic tests developed for the detection of the disease in various hosts, but results have been inconsistent and many tests have been proven unreliable. This current project is examining the use of new target genes to design a novel DNA-based assay that is dependable and sensitive for the detection of Hematodinium such that it can be used in current monitoring efforts to better understand disease incidence in Atlantic Canada.

 Classical detection methods include creating blood smears of test subjects, which takes a great amount of expertise and time to examine, hence the transition to molecular techniques. Unfortunately, previously published methods for Hematodinium detection have either been inconsistent or completely un-reproducible. By looking in a new direction and examining new genes of interest I hope to solve this problem and develop a molecular tool that has high accuracy, sensitivity for early infection, and experimental reproducibility. 

 Due to the commercialization of many crab species in Atlantic Canada, BCD presents a threat to local fisheries and local economies. Perhaps of greater concern is the ease with which the disease can spread, and the ability of the parasite to infect many host species, including the Norway lobster (Nephros norvegicus). As a result, there is increasing worry that the disease will spread to other commercially important marine organisms such as northern shrimp (Pandalus borealis) and the American lobster (Homarus americanus).

 I was able to partake in a BCD Think Tank, during which time I was able to meet and converse with many leading experts in the field and gain a better understanding of the current issues. We learned how to conduct an eye ablation and full crab necropsy, examining all the visible signs of BCD such as clouded blood, gill discoloration, and loss of blood clotting ability. These particular techniques really brought the disease into perspective and gave me a chance to do some hands on work!