Fish Species Determination

Eurofins is one of the world's leading laboratory for fish and shellfish species determination. Our DNA Competence Centre in Ebersberg, Germany offers the Gold Standard for seafood species determination. The exact species can be identified in fresh and processed fish and even in fish products such as pizza or ready meals without prior knowledge of the possible species present.

In addition, testing of exotic species or shellfish is available.

How do we determine which fish species are contained in the sample?

DNA Sequencing of mtDNA

After isolating the DNA we analyse 2 or more sequence sections of the mitochondrial genome (mtDNA). Each cell contains up to 10.000 copies of the mtDNA. So, mtDNA can be found in large quantities and has proved to be rather stable against degradation.

Our sequencing results are then compared with the entries in the NCBI data base (the world's most extensive sequence database with mtDNA sequences of thousands of species). By this method, the fish species present can be identified.

What species can be detected

All commonly consumed seafood and exotic species can be determined. That includes freshwater fish (Trout, Salmon, Carp), farmed fish (e.g.: commonly Trout, Salmon, Tilapia) and shellfish such as crab, lobster, oysters.

These types of seafood can be tested:

Salmon
Perch
Plaice
Hake
Haddock
Cod
Tuna
Sole
Flat Fish
Tusk

Herring
Whiting
Pollock
Sturgeon
Tilapia
Prawns
Shrimps
Mussels
Lobsters
and many more

Advantages of Eurofins' species determination method

No initial knowledge of the species possibly contained in the sample is necessary
By using an universal approach all consumed fish/ seafood species can be determined
Gold Standard Method of mtDNA sequencing for species determination
Designated test to discriminate closely related fish species
Designated test for canned fish

Advantages of the Eurofins DNA Competence Centre

Highly experienced lab staff
DIN ISO 17025 accredited
Handling of large sample quantities per day is possible
- Very fast turnaround time of 2-3 working days available