Publication Abstract

Novel methods to reduce disease inaquaculture

G.A. Barker

Over recent years therehas been an enormous advance in our understanding of bacterial fish diseases and inpreventative methods such as vaccination. Despite these advances the rainbow trout andsalmon industry in the UK still suffers from a small number of troublesome bacterialdiseases such as furunculosis (Aeromonas salmonicida), enteric red mouth (ERM) (Yersiniaruckeri) and rainbow trout fry syndrome (RTES) (Flavobacterium psychrophilum). Oncebacterial diseases occur it is often necessary to turn to antibacterial agents to treatthem. At present it is true to say that the use of antibiotics remains essential to theindustry. However, as many in the industry are all too aware such use these days is notalways trouble-free. This can be for a number of reasons, including bacterial resistance,drug residues and an increasing concern among retailers and their customers, about the useof antibiotics in food animals.

For all these reasons alternative methodsfor disease control and prevention in aquaculture are required. Potentially there are anumber of different approaches that could be taken and might prove beneficial inpreventing or controlling diseases.

Reference:

G.A. Barker (2000) Novel methods to reduce disease in aquaculture. Fish Veterinary Journal, 5:66-71