Publication Details
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Histological Techniques for Marine Bivalve Mollusks and Crustaceans
Author(s): Howard, D.W.; E. J. Lewis; B.J. Keller; C.S. Smith
NCCOS Center: CCEHBR
Center Team: Oxford Laboratory
Publication Type: NOAA Technical Memoranda
Journal Title: NOAA Technical Memorandum 5
Date of Publication: 2004
Reference Information:
Extent of Work: 218 pages
Keywords: histocytology; invertebrates; hemolymph; Perkinsus; parasites
Abstract: The Cooperative Oxford Laboratory (COL) became a pioneer in coastal ecosystem health assessment in 1960 when it was established to identify the causes of devastating oyster mortalities and diseases in the Chesapeake and Delaware bays. In order to accomplish this mission, COL scientists first needed to develop methodology to study marine and estuarine invertebrate pathology since the tools to do so were not yet in existence. Clinical methods including histology, tissue culture, and PCR were successfully tested, adapted and applied to aquatic animal pathology and compiled into what has become the second edition of Histological Techniques for Marine Bivalve Mollusks and Crustaceans. The manual was written as a guide to provide the best and cutting edge techniques for histopathological preparation and to enhance the field of marine invertebrate pathology worldwide. The methods included in the publication can also be applied to the study of fish, corals, and other aquatic species. Histological studies continue to be an essential component of aquatic science in understanding environmental effects on animals and their organ systems, health, stressors, growth, reproduction, and in validating molecular findings. Photographs and illustrations are provided for instruction throughout the manual accompanied by explanations of all the processes necessary to achieve a high quality microscope slide for examination and interpretation by pathologists. Special chapters are included to describe diagnostic techniques for detection of prominent diseases in aquatic invertebrates. The manual is printed on coated paper to resist spills and allow direct reference in the lab. COL continues to be a leader in aquatic animal health with over 50 years of experience in the microscopic examination of oyster, clam, crab, and fish tissues that enable staff pathologists to evaluate relationships of marine diseases and parasites with ever-changing environmental conditions. We expect the knowledge gathered from comprehensive Bay studies will lead to stabilization and increased resilience of the Chesapeake Bay ecosystem and beyond. This publication is used as a reference in graduate programs and has been distributed worldwide in hard copy to over 60 nations.
Availability: Dorothy.Howard@noaa.gov or Jay.Lewis@noaa.gov
Related Attachment: Download file (.pdf)
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