Fish keepers are reminded to minimise the biosecurity risks when introducing new fish (from a retailer, breeder or friend), or returning fish to their ponds.
The Fish Vet, Dr Richmond Loh said, “Fish keepers should ensure they have as much information as possible before buying new fish.”
“The chief tool for managing biosecurity risks when buying new fish is to have them vet-checked as part of a pre-purchase exam.” Dr Loh said. This is so important if you are buying valuable fish, or have irreplaceable fish at home.
“This is designed for early detection of disease before they become a problem, as a way to mitigate the risk of introducing common bacterial and parasitic infections.”
Dr Loh noted that biosecurity risks could also come from show-koi, or unsold koi from auctions returning to the property.
“The risk from returning koi is best managed by medicated baths prior to re-entry to your ponds,” Dr Loh said.
“In particular, check the health of other fish at the show. Also consider isolating the returning fish for at least two to three weeks, and perform pre-emptive treatment baths.”
Dr Loh said koi keepers and discus owners in particular often treated fish purchased from other owners, differently from fish purchased at retail outlets. But all fish can carry all the same diseases as all other fish.
For more information on aquatic animal biosecurity, see TheFishVet.com.au
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Yours sincerely,
Dr Richmond Loh
DipProjMgt, BSc, BVMS, MPhil (Pathology), MANZCVS (Aquatics & Pathobiology), CertAqV, CMAVA, NATA Signatory.
THE FISH VET, Perth, Western Australia, AUSTRALIA.
Mobile Aquatic Veterinary Medical & Diagnostic Services.
http://www.thefishvet.com.au
Ph: +61 (0)421 822 383
Skype: thefishvet
President WAVMA 2014
Adjunct Lecturer Murdoch University | Secretary Aquatic Animal Health Chapter – ANZCVS.
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