Although, at first sight, the title of this book may suggest that it has no relevance to parasitologists studying eukaryotic pathogens, closer examination reveals it to have many features that commend it as a valuable asset in the parasitology laboratory, particularly for those with an interest in fish and shellfish.

This laboratory manual emphasizes the practical aspects of fish and shellfish bacteriology. Theoretical aspects related to the subject, or the numerous techniques described, are only included when they have a direct relevance to understanding the technique involved. Immunological techniques are only briefly discussed, and molecular biological analysis is not included. The book, therefore, concentrates on the isolation and characterization of bacteria utilizing staining, antibiotic sensitivity and biochemical techniques. The manual comprises 22 chapters, many of which include useful, detailed recipes on culture media, staining procedures and isolation techniques. In addition, several of the early chapters give basic details on bacteria and fish manipulation, which may be of use to parasitologists studying eukaryotic pathogens. For example, Chapter 2 considers the basis of sample collection and determination of the most suitable number of fish to be examined, whilst Chapters 3 and 4 consider the transport of fish and collection of fish blood under aseptic conditions. Similar issues are considered in relation to shellfish in later chapters. The final chapters of the book concentrate on diagnostic methodology, interpretation of diagnostic tests, colony identification, and biochemical, serological and antibiotic resistance testing, pertinent to both fish and shellfish. The appendix contains a very useful and detailed biochemical profile of several pathogenic bacteria e.g. Aeromonas salmonicida, A. hydrophila, Escherichia coli, Yersinia ruckeri and several Vibrio species.

The book has very few pictures and diagrams. All illustrations are in black and white and, with the exception of those that illustrate a technique, contain basic details. The publication is primarily targeted at individuals working in aquatic, environmental and veterinary science, aquaculture, public health and aquatic research. However, the contents will be of interest to those studying many aspects of fish biology, particularly disease. In addition, the bacteriological principles and techniques described may be of some use to parasitologists in general.