COMPARISON OF THE SURVIVAL AND PROLIFERATION OF VIRULENT & AVIRULENT STRAINS OF VIBRIO VULNIFICUS & VIBRIO PARA. IN SEAWATER & SHELLFISH

This study will evaluate the survival and proliferation of virulent and avirulent strains of V. vulnificus and V. parahaemolyticus in marine waters and in oysters (Crassostrea virginica) in the presence and absence of algae. It will compare the role of single versus continuous algae addition on V. parahaemolyticus and V. vulnificus survival and proliferation. Mechanisms of potential vibrio suppression by oyster-associated factors released into seawater will be evaluated. This research may lead to recommendations for vibrio monitoring and for the continued sale of raw shellfish in the marketplace.