By Reiny Tumbol, Client Success Manager, Genics Indonesia 

Sending test samples to Genics is easy and fast, but some of our customers are initially concerned about the process of sending shrimp samples to our laboratory in Australia. Don’t worry. Our sample shipping process is fast, easy, and secure, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. 

Genics is your most valuable partner in breeding and growing outstanding shrimp and keeping them healthy. We solve the problem of early pathogen detection with our Shrimp MultiPath2.0 testing and enable genetically powered breeding programs with ShrimpID. Our Biosecurity services also help farmers understand where pathogens come from in the first place and allow them to better understand how to prevent them from entering the farming system.

Keep reading for the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about sample shipping. 

How long does it take to send samples from my farm in Indonesia to the Genics laboratory in Australia? 

Shipping samples from Indonesia to the Genics laboratory in Australia only takes 2-3 days, depending on your exact location in Indonesia. So, if you follow our simple submission process, we’ll get results back to you very quickly. 

Sending samples to Genics is easy. 

1. Pack your samples 
Genics can provide barcoded tubes to put your samples in – just add 70% laboratory-grade ethanol. 

Sampling guides and videos are on our website, and our consultants are always available to help you with sample programs and sampling techniques. 

2. Submit & send 
Log your samples on the myGenics web portal, and we will organize the pick-up from your farm. 

3. Get quick results 
Samples ship from Indonesia to Australia with DHL in 2-3 days, so you’ll get fast results.

Learn more about submitting your samples to Genics here. 

Will my samples stay fresh during shipping? Is sample degradation a problem?

Genics can provide 1 and 2 mL barcoded tubes to put your samples in – just add 70% laboratory-grade ethanol.

Once your sample is preserved in 70% laboratory-grade ethanol, your DNA and RNA are safe. They can be stored at ambient or room temperature for many weeks, and the Shrimp MultiPath assay will maintain its sensitivity and accuracy for your samples.

When preparing your samples for shipping, ensure your sample tubes have less than 30 mL of liquid, are closed (first seal), and are placed in a ziplock plastic bag (second seal), removing all excess air. In a small cardboard box, put your double-sealed samples with enough paper towels to absorb all the liquid if it does leak. Ensure the total volume in your cardboard box is less than 1 liter or 1000 mL.

You’ll register all your shipping parcels on the myGenics customer portal, and they’ll be tracked throughout their journey, every step of the way, to our Accredited Laboratories.

Watch the video below for more information about sample packing:

How do I dissect shrimp to get samples for Genics testing? 

Dissecting shrimp to obtain testing samples is a straightforward process. You only need very simple tools, like scissors and sterile disposable gloves. 

You can watch the short videos below on shrimp dissection to get all the information you need.  

This video explains shrimp lymphoid organ dissection:

Non-destructive pleopod sampling is an easy 3-step process – watch this video to learn how to do it:

This video explains Shrimp MultiPath2.0 target organ dissection:

How can I quickly sterilize my tools when preparing samples? 

All you need to sterilize your sampling tools is a small amount of ethanol, a scouring sponge, a propane gas burner or other hot flame.  

Dipping your tools in ethanol and placing them briefly on an open flame will effectively remove contaminants and pathogens. 

Watch this short video to quickly learn this easy and effective sterilization technique:

How do I tag my shrimp for individual identification? 

When collecting samples for Genics, there are times when you want your pathogen or genotyping data to be linked to specific animals. In this case, it’s important to use a tracking system such as individually numbered eye tags to link your live animal to your digital data. 

This video shows you the easy procedure for applying eye tags to your live shrimp:

How do I register to use myGenics services? 

Registering for the myGenics customer portal is a simple three-step process. Once your organization is registered, we’ll send you the barcoded tubes you need to collect samples. Then, you can log in and track your samples as they’re delivered to us.  

Get started by completing the easy myGenics online registration form here.    

Who can help me get started using Genics services?   

My name is Dr. Reiny Tumbol. I’m the local Genics expert consultant in Indonesia, and I’m available to answer all your questions about shrimp health, pathogen testing, breeding programs, and sample shipping. 

Please get in touch with me, and I’ll be delighted to help: reiny.tumbol@genics.com.au

About the Author 

Dr. Reiny Tumbol is Genics Client Success Manager in Indonesia. An Indonesian local now living in North Sulawesi, she has more than 30 years of experience in Aquaculture. Reiny studied at top-tier Australian Universities, gaining extensive knowledge and experience in aquaculture and fisheries. She is passionate about helping Indonesia’s Shrimp farmers optimize their animal health and breeding program outcomes. 

Visit the Genics shrimp solutions page to discover all our health, biosecurity, and breeding optimization services: