UPTAKE, DISTRIBUTION, AND RELEASE OF VIBRIO VULNIFICUS FROM OYSTERS

The objective is to compare the uptake, spread, and ultimate release of virulent and avirulent strains of V. vulnificus from oysters. These comparisons will determine if strains virulent to humans are more or less likely to be taken up, bound, or purged from shellfish than the avirulent strains. Such information is needed to assess the feasibility of developing monitoring programs for virulent forms of V. vulnificus in shellfish and of depuration as a means to enhance the safety of molluscan shellfish.