Onda expands fish health research with new Tenacibaculum models and diagnostic tools

CANADA – Canadian aquaculture research leader Onda is strengthening its role in global fish health innovation with an expanded suite of Tenacibaculum disease models and the development of rapid diagnostic kits, offering new tools to combat one of aquaculture’s most persistent bacterial threats.

The company announced the launch of new study models for Tenacibaculum dicentrarchi and T. finnmarkense, broadening its Tenacibaculum platform and providing aquaculture producers with more precise, science-driven resources to manage complex fish health challenges. 

The expansion complements Onda’s existing T. maritimum challenge model, first introduced in March 2024, which marked a milestone in Tenacibaculum research.

“These new models light the path forward, turning complexity into clarity in the fight against tenacibaculosis, and mapping the battlefield so our clients can get ahead,” said Dr. Fabio Zanuzzo, Director of Aquatic Animal Health at Onda.

Tackling a global fish health challenge

Tenacibaculum bacteria, which cause severe lesions and significant mortality in farmed fish, represent one of aquaculture’s most widespread and costly diseases. 

Affecting salmon and other species across regions such as Chile, Norway, Canada, and Northern Europe, Tenacibaculum infections are estimated to cost the salmon industry tens of millions of dollars each year through stock losses, treatment costs, and reduced productivity.

Unlike single-strain diseases, Tenacibaculum encompasses multiple species that behave differently depending on region and host, complicating prevention and treatment. 

By offering controlled, reproducible study models, Onda enables aquaculture companies, feed manufacturers, and biotech innovators to test vaccines, therapeutics, and management solutions under realistic conditions.

“These new models underscore Onda’s commitment to addressing the aquaculture industry’s most urgent health challenges,” said Myrna Gillis, Onda’s CEO. 

“By equipping our clients with robust research platforms, we help them bring effective solutions to market faster, supporting healthier fish, stronger businesses, and a more sustainable food supply.”

Rapid diagnostic tools for faster response

In addition to expanding its Tenacibaculum models, Onda has also secured an Ignition Fund grant from Innovation PEI to develop rapid, field-deployable diagnostic kits.

These portable tests aim to provide producers with quick, affordable alternatives to traditional laboratory diagnostics, allowing early pathogen detection and real-time monitoring.

The new technology is expected to enhance proactive disease management and reduce losses from outbreaks.

Onda’s broader research efforts continue to advance aquaculture sustainability. In 2024, the company collaborated with Belgian producer Citribel to introduce Mycofence, a mycelium-derived feed additive that boosts salmon disease resistance. 

Later that year, Onda also announced its expansion into whiteleg shrimp research, reflecting its growing focus on diversified aquatic species.

With one of the largest aquatic containment facilities in aquaculture research, Onda continues to build partnerships across industry and academia, driving innovation that supports fish welfare and global food security. 

Through its expanding disease models and diagnostic tools, the company is not only enhancing research precision but also empowering producers to stay one step ahead in managing fish health worldwide.

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