Survival and replication of male-specific bacteriophages in molluscan shellfish.
The survival and replication of male-specific bacteriophages in hard-shelled clams (Mercenaria mercenaria) and their homogenates were examined to further assess their potential utility as indicator organisms. Trials were conducted in the presence and absence of a suitable bacterial host, Escherichia coli HS[pFamp]R. Results of this study demonstrated that male-specific bacteriophages were unable to replicate in hard-shelled clams, with or without added host cells. In addition, the densities of these bacteriophages were stable for up to 7 days in shellfish held at ambient seawater temperatures (less than 25 degrees C). Evidence of replication, although not observed in live shellfish, was found to occur in temperature-abused shellfish homogenates and supernatants, but only when a suitable bacterial host was present.
Burkhardt
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W
Department of Microbiology, University of Rhode Island, Kingston 02881.
Watkins
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WD
Rippey
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SR
D000818:Animals; D001435:Bacteriophages / Q000254:growth & development / Q000502:physiology*; D007700:Kinetics; D008297:Male; D008974:Mollusca / Q000382:microbiology*; D012758:Shellfish / Q000382:microbiology*; D013696:Temperature; D014779:Virus Replication