Biosecurity considerations for your aquatic animal set-up BY DR SASHA SAUGH
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iosecurity refers to the practices and procedures used to prevent the introduction, spread and persistence of an infectious agent. Different environments and management practices present varying levels of disease risk to animals. Maintaining biosecurity involves managing this risk not eliminating the risk (which is not possible). The aim is to remove conditions that make animals more susceptible to disease. Biosecurity practices should be practiced by exporters, importers, wholesalers, retailers, producers, hobbyists and anyone involved in managing aquaria. Why is biosecurity so important? It benefits every level in the supply chain and decreases the risk of diseases being passed on through different levels. It is, therefore, an important part of any business plan which involves animals. Biosecurity is not limited to intensive production systems involving aquatic animals, but to all levels of animal husbandry. The outcomes of good biosecurity practices translate to fewer production losses; improved health and welfare of animals concerned; less cost due to veterinary treatments or other interventions; and, often overlooked, is the improved reputation within the ornamental fish industry and with clients who source aquatic animals from you. A good biosecurity plan will focus on three key concepts, i.e., keeping the pathogen (microscopic organisms that cause disease) out, containing the pathogen, and the application of good health practices.
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JULY 2021 | PETPRINTS
