Yersinia ruckeri

ALSO KNOWN AS: ERM, Redmouth Disease

Yersinia ruckeri is the causative agent of Enteric Redmouth Disease (ERM), a bacterial infection primarily affecting salmonid fish. The disease is characterized by hemorrhaging around the mouth, eyes, gill covers, and fins, as well as systemic infections in severe cases. ERM is highly contagious and spreads through waterborne transmission, direct fish-to-fish contact, and contaminated equipment.

Distribution: Worldwide, particularly in aquaculture environments.

Hosts: Salmonids, including trout and salmon.

Detection Methods: Bacterial culture – TSA (tryptic soy agar), PCR.