HAMES Laboratory Method:
Submission of live tilapia for diagnostic laboratory examination

Purpose

At times it is necessary to send tilapia specimens to a diagnostic laboratory for evaluation. More tests and increased accuracy of the test results are possible if the diagnostician can examine fish that are received alive. Thus, tilapia farmers are encouraged to have the necessary supplies and equipment to be able to send fish to a laboritory for disease diagnosis.

Equipment and supplies

1. Strong plastic shipping bags that will hold water.
2. Styrofoam cooler and cardboard outer shipping containers.
3. A source of oxygen (*see product below)
4. Rubber bands, marking pens and tape.

*OXYCAN compressed oxygen supply. Order from local hardware store or
Keith Wolos, Inc., P.O. Box 256, Riverdale, NJ 07457; ph: (201) 835-3085; Fax: (201) 835-2865.

OXYCAN is no longer available in the USA. Try

• http://www.oxygen4energy.com
• http://www.oxygeninacan.com

Procedure

1. Select two to five tilapia that are symptomatic of the problem.
2. Add water to the shipping bag to cover the fish by 1/2 to 1 inch.
3. Remove all the air above the water from the bag, fill the bag with oxygen, close and seal with rubber bands.
4. Place bag in styrofoam cooler into the shipping box and seal.
5. Label the appropriate address on the outside of the box and send via a local air freight

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