Development of conventional and quantitative PCR assays for the detection of Vibrio europaeus using a Species-Specific gene identified from the pangenome.

Vibriosis, specifically caused by Vibrio europaeus, significantly impacts bivalve aquaculture through severe mortalities mainly at early stages. Developing specific diagnostic tools has been hindered by a lack of reliable molecular targets. Using a pangenomic approach via our custom pipeline, PanGenAmp, we identified the gene ktrA as a highly specific marker. Novel conventional and quantitative PCR (qPCR) assays were developed based on ktrA, demonstrating high sensitivity and accuracy. These PCR tools fill a critical diagnostic gap, enabling early pathogen detection and improved biosecurity to mitigate the economic consequences of V. europaeus outbreaks in shellfish hatcheries.