PCR amplification of species specific sequences of 16S rDNA and 16S–23S rDNA intergenic spacer region for identification of Streptococcus phocae

SummaryStreptococcus phocae, a bacterial pathogen of seals, could reliably be identified by PCR amplification using oligonuclotide primers designed according to species specific segments of the previously sequenced 16S rRNA gene and the 16S–23S rDNA intergenic spacer region of this species. The PCR mediated assay allowed an identification of S. phocae isolated from harbor and gray seals and from Atlantic salmons. No cross-reaction could be observed with 13 different other streptococcal species and subspecies and with Lactococcus garvieae strains investigated for control purposes.