ACDP Fish Diseases Laboratory (AFDL)


The ACDP Fish Diseases Laboratory (AFDL) specialises in research and diagnosis of diseases of aquatic animals, including finfish, molluscs and crustaceans with an emphasis on exotic (foreign) and newly emerging diseases.

AFDL has seven major roles:

  • disease diagnosis and the identification of infectious agents (pathogens)
  • research on infectious diseases of aquatic animals
  • development and validation of diagnostic tests for exotic and emerging diseases
  • export certification testing and health surveillance
  • training and technology transfer
  • provision of advice to Australian State and Commonwealth Government agencies and industry.

Services Available

  • real-time PCR
  • conventional PCR and amplicon sequencing
  • whole genome sequencing
  • finfish virus isolation and identification
  • in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry
  • confirmation of bacterial pathogen identification
  • in vivo pathogenicity trials

AFDL Commercial Charges

Price Update

As of the date 01 July 2026, there will be a price increase for testing completed at CSIRO ACDP. These new prices are listed below. Please contact the laboratory if you require further information.


PCR Charges – Pathogen-Specific Tests

Virus Isolation Charges

Overseas Surcharge (for quarantine clearance) $272. All prices are Ex GST.

As part of ACDP/AAHL, AFDL is accredited by the National Association of Testing Authorities (ISO17025).

For information on accessing AFDL services, please contact us:

All samples should be accompanied by a completed Submission Form