FVG opens Chilean lab

The state-of-the-art 13,500 ft² lab is the only aquaculture health facility in Latin America equipped with robotic qPCR and digital histology equipment and utilizes the latest technology to form a highly automated process, from receipt of samples to the reading of the results.

FVG’s Chilean operation is headed by Javier Moya as Commercial and Operations Manager who, together with the rest diagnostic team, is in a strong position to make a difference to the health of the Chilean aquaculture industry. The team can draw on the combined skills and experience of health professionals across the FVG Group in Norway, Scotland, Ireland, Brazil, Thailand and North America. FVG Chile’s primary focus will be the Chilean salmon industry, in addition to all other types of farmed fish, shellfish and crustaceans.

Hamish Rodger, Fish Vet Group Global Managing Director, commented: “We are delighted to take FVG to a new country and are looking forward to developing and providing the same high quality of service we are renowned for, here in Chile. The team we have brought together will make a fantastic addition to our global presence, adding to our holistic, expert-led, evidence-based approach they will help ensure Fish Vet Group is able to continue offering our unique approach to sustainable production”.

Hernan Pizarro, FVG’s Technical Services Director commented: “The continued global growth of aquaculture brings many challenges – the Chilean aquaculture industry has been dealing with the impact of a toxic algae bloom this year in which 23 million fish have died, costing the industry and government $800m. Placing a highly experienced and skilled technical team here will allow us to support the industry through rapid-response on-farm clinical services, disease identification and world-class aquatic veterinary training, consultancy and diagnostics. By supporting and promoting fish health, FVG will contribute both to global food sustainability and security”.