Aquaculture researchers win funding to develop on-site test kits
Aquaculture research organisation Onda has been awarded funding to support the development of rapid diagnostic test kits designed to enhance disease detection and management in fish and shellfish farming.
Onda, based on Prince Edward Island (PEI), Atlantic Canada, is receiving the money from the Ignition Fund, a competitive-based fund for entrepreneurs provided by Innovation PEI.
The money will enable Onda to advance its work in creating user-friendly, field-deployable diagnostic kits that enable aquaculture producers to quickly and accurately detect pathogens affecting fish and shellfish health. The company said there was currently a lack of on-the-farm testing options that deliver rapid results, and it is seizing this opportunity to fill that gap and help farmers respond to health challenges more quickly and effectively.
“Aquaculture is a vital industry for Atlantic Canada, and ensuring the health of farmed fish and shellfish is essential for sustainability and economic growth,” said Onda chief executive Myrna Gillis.
“This grant from the Ignition Fund allows us to accelerate the development of rapid, reliable diagnostic solutions that will empower producers with real-time health monitoring tools.”
An efficient alternative
Traditional disease detection in aquaculture often relies on laboratory-based testing, which can be time-consuming and costly. Onda said its innovative approach will provide a cost-effective and efficient alternative, allowing for early disease detection and proactive management, ultimately reducing losses and improving overall industry resilience.
The research and development efforts will take place at Onda’s facility in Souris, PEI. The company plans to collaborate with key stakeholders, including industry partners, government agencies, and academic researchers, to refine and validate the technology before bringing it to market.
“We are grateful for the support of Innovation PEI and the Ignition Fund as we continue our mission to advance aquaculture science,” said Dr Jordan Poley, director of labtech at Onda and the team member leading the development of the rapid diagnostic test kits. “This funding is a testament to the potential of our research to drive meaningful impact in the industry.”
