Murray AG †, Raynard A †, Stagg R †, Peeler E *
† Fisheries
Research Services (FRS), Marine Laboratory, Aberdeen, UK
* Centre for Environment, Fisheries & Aquaculture Sciences (CEFAS), The
Nothe, Weymouth, UK
Production of farmed trout, and particularly of salmon, is increasing in Scotland. In association with this increase, several diseases and parasites have emerged. These pathogens may affect wild fish species, which may also act as reservoirs for infection. We describe interactions between farmed and wild fish stocks for pathogens that have emerged in, or present a risk to, Scotland. Some pathogens such as furunculosis, and potentially Gyrodactylus salaris, may be disastrous for both aquaculture and wild fish. For several viruses, wild fish may not be much affected but act as reservoirs, both of pathogenic and of non-pathogenic viruses that may become pathogenic under aquaculture. Native sea lice infestation should be controlled on a well-managed fish farm, but could pose a risk to wild sea trout due to relatively large farm biomasses.
Epidemiological studies and surveillance are required to reduce the risk of further pathogens emerging as aquaculture expands. Vaccines, medicines and bio-security measures such as movement controls are used to control some existing pathogens, but culling remains an option. Most measures are applied on farms, but surveillance of, and some interventions in wild populations may be possible.
|
|
|
| Go back | |
| This site is maintained by JaDes |
|