Government of Canada announces funding to advance scientific research on MSX disease in oysters

OTTAWA, ON, March 7, 2025 /CNW/ - Recent detections of MSX disease, or multinucleate sphere unknown X (MSX), in Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) and New Brunswick, have posed significant challenges for the oyster industry across Atlantic Canada. While much is known about MSX, which affects oyster health and growth, significant knowledge gaps remain. While MSX is not a food safety concern, it poses a serious threat to Canada's oyster industry.

Today the Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, announced the recipients of more than $850 thousand in funding to support further scientific research activities on MSX. Funding will be provided to six recipients to support a range of research areas such as rapid detection and disease resistance.

In November 2024, research areas and knowledge gaps were also identified as part of a Science Summit that was co-chaired by Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Province of Prince Edward Island. Key areas for further research identified during the Summit included learning more about genetic markers or traits that could promote resistance to MSX, rapid detection methodologies, and the need to learn more about the experience in other jurisdictions dealing with MSX.

These investments continue to advance improved understanding of MSX disease in Canada, helping to support industry efforts to manage the disease while ensuring the long-term health of marine species and ecosystems.

Quotes

"By supporting this important research on MSX, the Government of Canada is investing in the future of our oyster industry , as well as the livelihoods of the Canadians who depend on them. Together, we are advancing scientific knowledge that will strengthen our ability to protect the health and sustainability of our marine ecosystems and ensure the resilience of coastal communities."

The Honourable Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

Quick Facts

• MSX is not a food safety concern.
• MSX was first detected in Canada in Bras d'Or Lake, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia in 2002 and has continued to impact oyster populations in that area. In July 2024, it was detected in oysters in P.E.I., followed by sites in New Brunswick in November 2024.
• Haplosporidium nelsoni (H. nelsoni) is the pathogen that causes MSX disease in cultured and wild American oysters.
• Canada's National Aquatic Animal Health Program (NAAHP), co-delivered by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), is responsible for preventing the introduction and/or spread of significant aquatic animal diseases of finfish, molluscs and crustaceans.

Associated Links

• Supporting the PEI oyster industry through science
• MSX Science Summit – summary
• Response to MSX and Dermo in oysters
• New oyster movement rules in Prince Edward Island to help prevent further spread of MSX
• Detection of MSX and Dermo in oysters in New Brunswick
• Detection of MSX in Bedeque Bay, Prince Edward Island

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SOURCE Fisheries and Oceans (DFO) Canada

Contacts: Andrew Richardson, Acting Director of Communications, Office of the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, [email protected]; Media Relations: Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 613-990-7537, [email protected]