Detection of Azadinium poporum in New Zealand: the use of molecular tools to assist with species isolations

A real-time PCR assay for the detection of species from the genera Azadinium and Amphidoma (family: Amphidomataceae) was developed in order to screen field samples and to aid in the isolation of azaspiracid (AZA)-producing dinoflagellates. The assay was highly specific and sensitive and allowed the rapid detection of target species. Samples collected as part of the New Zealand Marine Phytoplankton Monitoring Programme were analysed using the Amphidomataceae real-time PCR assay. Azadinium poporum was detected in New Zealand for the first time and a culture was successfully established. Extracts of this isolate proved to be of low toxicity to mice and contained no known AZAs. Field samples will continue to be screened with the aim of identifying AZA-producing species. The Amphidomataceae real-time PCR assay will be a useful tool for monitoring programmes and taxonomic surveys worldwide.