Publication Abstract

The significance of diseases and anomalies in wild salmonids

D. Bucke

The historical evidence of disastrous epidemics, including ulcerative dermal necrosis ( UDN ) and furunculosis, is briefly reviewed. The early work and recommendations for disease controls are described. The establishment of the Fish Diseases Laboratory ( FDL ) at Weymouth in 1967 was a positive outcome reflecting the significance placed on diseases in salmonids. The work at FDL Weymouth involves diagnosis relating to statutory diseases and their inter-relationship between farmed and wild fish stocks. Additionally, surveys of wild stocks are made for research investigations. Results from those studies revealed that, since the second UDN outbreak in the 1970s, no significant diseases have occurred in wild salmonids in England and Wales. The paper concludes with warnings about potential dangers to wild salmonids from adverse environmental factors.

Reference:

D. Bucke, 1993. The significance of diseases and anomalies in wild salmonids. Fisheries Research, 17(1-2): 209-217