In recognition of the devastating effects that disease was having on oysters in U.S. coastal waters, the
Oyster Disease Research Program (ODRP) was established in 1990 by Congressional mandate. The ODRP supports
university-based research aimed at developing methods to restore the commercial and ecological value of
oyster populations nationwide. Through this program, scientists from academic institutions collaborate to
better understand and monitor the diseases and parasites that affect oysters and investigate methods to
manage around these diseases.
Notable ODRP accomplishments include:
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The development of molecular probes able to detect as little as one cell of Dermo in an
oyster, allowing for early detection and management of the disease
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Supporting the development and field testing of disease resistant strains of oysters,
including the Cooperative Regional Oyster Selective Breeding—also known as CROSBreed–and
the Delaware Bay strain (DEBY) for use in commercial aquaculture
The following sites feature more information on ODRP and the work being done through the
Sea Grant Programs of the University of Maryland and the Virginia Institute of Marine
Science (VIMS) at the College of William and Mary: