Investigating the significance of the role of Ostrea edulis larvae in the transmission and transfer of Bonamia ostreae

In this study, the ability of oyster larvae, brooded in the pallial cavity of the parent oyster, to become infected in the pallial fluid, which is influenced by the brooding oyster and surrounding environment, was investigated. Larvae were collected over three summers from three areas around Ireland. Samples were screened for the presence of Bonamia ostreae DNA using PCR analysis. Four samples of larvae were found to be positive for B. ostreae DNA, though the parent oysters were negative for infection. Larvae may be able to acquire the pathogen from the water column during filter feeding or elimination of pseudo-faeces by the brooding adult.