A clear test is necessary to differentiate the two
species. In addition, a rapid bacteriological diagnostic method
is necessary to initiate prompt therapeutic and prophylactic
measures in order to limit the economic losses generated by
these infections in aquaculture. In response to these needs, we
have developed a new PCR assay based on primers deduced
from the regions carrying the 16S rRNA genes of L. garvieae
which specifically identifies L. garvieae, which differentiates
L. garvieae from L. lactis, and which is sensitive enough to be
applied to clinical specimens.