Koi herpesvirus (KHV)

Fish—especially newly acquired koi and carp—should be tested for the highly contagious and usually fatal koi herpesvirus (KHV).

All information at a glance

Detection of koi herpesvirus (Cyprinid herpesvirus 3, CyHV-3) is crucial for protecting koi and carp stocks. Early diagnostics provides certainty within the stock, supports responsible stock planning, and helps prevent the spread of this highly contagious disease.

rice-grain-sized gill sample in 100% isopropanol

(Sample containers filled with 100% isopropanol can be ordered free of charge directly from Tauros Diagnostik or obtained from a pharmacy)

1–2 days after the sample is received in the laboratory

Samples delivered to us by 10:00 a.m. are sent for analysis the same day

1–3 analyses from gill tissue: €29.40 each (incl. VAT)

From 4 analyses from gill tissue: €27.40 each (incl. VAT)

(Additional work for submission of whole fish: €10.00 each)

Common clinical symptoms
Lethargy, loss of appetite up to complete refusal of food, respiratory distress, frequent gasping at the water surface, increased staying in the current or directly at the water outlet, increased mortality—sometimes very sudden

External changes
Gill damage (e.g., paling, frayed gill lamellae, necrosis), sunken eyes (enophthalmos), increased mucus production or mucus loss, rough skin (sandpaper-like), occasional small skin lesions, colour changes, often an overall pale appearance

Course & special characteristics
Symptoms usually occur at water temperatures between approx. 16–28°C, usually a faster, acute course, high mortality of 70–100%

Incubation period
a few days up to about two weeks
Surviving fish can remain lifelong carriers of the virus (latent infection)

Differentiation
A reliable diagnosis is only possible through laboratory detection (PCR).

Common clinical symptoms

  • Outbreak usually at water temperatures of 16–28°C

  • pronounced lethargy

  • Respiratory distress, gasping

  • Gill damage: initially pale, blotchy with swelling and oedema, later necrosis

  • Loss of appetite up to complete refusal of food intake

  • High mortality of 70–100%, rapid acute course

Two ways to DNA analysis – choose what suits you best

Order – Digital

  • Recommended for fast online processing

The fast and cost-effective way: Order your DNA analysis online and receive the results conveniently as a digital certificate in your own archive. Transparent, efficient, and accessible at any time, wherever you are.

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Order – Paper form

  • Recommended for classic documentation

The classic way to DNA analysis: Submit your samples with an order form and receive the results as an official certificate in paper form. Ideal for those who value printed documentation.

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