Protocol for Translocation of Aquatic Animals to Recirculating Aquaculture Systems

February 2008

Fisheries Management Report Series No. 47

Preferred way to cite this publication:
Anonymous (2008). Victorian Protocol for the Translocation of Aquatic Animals to Recirculating Aquaculture Systems. Fisheries Victoria
Management Report Series No. 47.

ISSN 1448-1693
ISBN 978-1-74199-117-8 (paperback)
978-1-74199-118-5 (online)

Introduction

Purpose

The purpose of this protocol is to mitigate the risks associated with the translocation of aquatic animals into, out of, or between recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) in Victoria. The protocol considers the environmental risks associated with translocations and aims to improve the efficiency of the application and approval process.

Consistent with the Guidelines for Assessing Translocations of Live Aquatic Organisms in Victoria (Department of Environment and Primary Industries, 2003), development of this protocol has been guided by a risk assessment. This document details the risk assessment process undertaken in relation to the translocation of aquatic animals grown in RAS and the protocols recommended for the translocation activities associated with RAS in Victoria.

Scope

Translocation activities can be for the purposes of commercial aquaculture, research and development and/or for fish stocking. Further, a range of translocation activities are undertaken during the course of RAS operation and management (Figure 1). This protocol applies to the translocation of live aquatic organisms, including all stages of the organism's lifecycle, and specifies the conditions under which the organism can be translocated.

The broad range of species and purposes associated with RAS results in overlap between this protocol and other finalised protocols. It is therefore important to define the scope of this protocol and the activities addressed in other translocation protocols.

This protocol will be enabled through incorporation in relevant Aquaculture (Private Land) licences and general permits that contain conditions specifying compliance with the RAS Translocation Protocol.

In the context of this report, RAS is defined as: 

…self-contained farming systems that require minimal water exchange due to the internal recycling of water and use of biological and mechanical filters (Office of Regulatory Reform, 1999).

For the purposes of this protocol, a RAS will possess the following physical and production characteristics:

• be enclosed in a shed or similar structure;
• rely substantially on water re-use; 
• have the capacity for environmental conditions to be managed by the operator;
• employ a dedicated system for biological and mechanical filtration; and
• have the capacity to be made biosecure.

In addition, considerable understanding and characterisation of RAS has been gained through the development of the Best Practice Environmental Management Guidelines for Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (BPEMG) (Gavine et al, in press). The BPEMG links the wastes generated by RAS (e.g. uneaten feed, faeces, chemicals and therapeutants, fish mortalities, fish escapes and greenhouse gas emissions) with best practice management for new farms (e.g. site selection, farm design and construction) and existing facilities (e.g. operational management).

This protocol identifies and ranks the risks associated with translocation of selected species that are currently or likely to be cultured in RAS. 

This document does not address the translocation of:

• ornamental fish as a national strategy has been developed to address the management of this industry (Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, 2007);
• fish for restocking public waters (i.e. Protocols for the Translocation of Fish in Victorian Inland Public Waters (Department of Environment and Primary Industries, 2005));
• aquatic animals for stocking private waters as this will be the subject of a separate translocation protocol;
• shortfin and longfin eels translocated to RAS systems (i.e. Victorian Protocol for the Translocation of Eels (Department of Environment and Primary Industries, 2006));
• organisms sourced from overseas as this is addressed at the Federal level; or
• genetically modified organisms (GMO).

Translocation activity	Translocation to
1. Translocation of hatchery-reared seedstock from Victorian orinterstate hatcheries.	- RAS for continued growout.
2. Translocation of hatchery-reared broodstock from Victorian orinterstate hatcheries.	- RAS to be used as broodstock.
3. Translocation of broodstock from the wild.	- RAS to be used as broodstock.
4. Translocation of advanced juveniles from RAS.	- Other RAS for continued growout.
5. Translocation of live table fish.	- Markets in Victoria, where the translocation is undertakenby the RAS operator.

Definitions

For the purposes of this translocation protocol, the following terms are defined:

Broodstock: Animals retained for the purposes of breeding. This stock may be obtained from the wild and or conditioned on-farm and may be part of a selective breeding program.

Competent veterinarian authority (CVA): The National Veterinary Services or other authority of a Member Country having the responsibility and competence for ensuring or supervising the implementation of the aquatic animal health measures recommended in the Aquatic Animal Health Code (OIE, 2006a). In Victoria, the CVA is the Chief Veterinary Officer, Biosecurity Victoria.

Consequence: The outcomes of an event or situation (e.g. a loss, injury, disadvantage or gain) expressed qualitatively or quantitatively.

Disease: Clinical or non-clinical infection where one or more of the aetiological agents of the diseases is listed in the Aquatic Animal Health Code (OIE, 2006a).

Domesticated: Describes animals characterised by changes in behaviour, morphology or physiology brought about through cultivation and breeding under agricultural conditions.

Endemic species: Species that occurs naturally within Victoria.

Established species: Introduced species which are widely distributed and reproduce within a catchment or region.

Fish: As defined under section 5 of the Fisheries Act 1995, all species of vertebrate aquatic fauna (other than mammals, reptiles, birds and amphibians) including sharks, rays, lampreys and other cartilaginous fish; oysters and other aquatic molluscs; crustaceans; echinoderms; and any species of aquatic invertebrate declared to be a fish by the Governor in Council.

Genetic shift: Changes in allele frequency that can occur in a population whose parental stock is reproductively isolated from the main population

(e.g. wild population).

Genetically modified organisms (GMO): An organism whose genome has been modified using gene technology or that has inherited a trait(s) that has resulted from gene technology. For the purpose of this document, selective breeding and manipulation of chromosome number (i.e. ploidy) are not considered gene technology.

Introduced species: Species which are not endemic to Australia.

Likelihood: Probability or frequency of a particular event or situation occurring.

Non-endemic species: Species which are endemic to Australia but not Victoria.

Office International des Epizooties (OIE): Also known as World Organisation for Animal Health, an international inter-governmental organisation that collates and disseminates information on animal diseases and develops health standards for international trade in animals and animal products.

Quarantine: Maintaining a population of aquatic animals for a specified period of time without direct or indirect contact with other aquatic animals for the purposes of observation and, if appropriate, testing and treatment. Quarantine may include appropriate treatment of the effluent.

Recirculating aquaculture system (RAS): quaculture system that is characterised by being enclosed within a building or similar structure, relies substantially on water re-use, has the capacity for environmental control, employs dedicated mechanical and biological filtration and has the capacity to be made biosecure.

Risk: Expose to a chance of loss or damage.

Risk assessment: Process where estimates of the likelihood and consequence of an event are combined to arrive at a level of risk. Control methods are developed to reduce the risks.

Risk rating: The chance of undesirable events, expressed as a function of the likelihood and consequence of such events.

Translocation: The deliberate human-assisted movement of a live aquatic organism and associated transport media.

Translocation Evaluation Panel (TEP): Expertise-based panel, established under the Guidelines for Assessing Translocations of Live Aquatic Organisms in Victoria, which evaluates proposed translocations and translocation protocols.

Legislation

Translocations described in this protocol are those authorised under the Fisheries Act 1995 and are subject to the Fisheries Regulations 1998. That is, the translocation is authorised under an aquaculture licence or a general permit.

Key Victorian legislation surrounding the translocation of aquatic organisms includes:

• the Fisheries Act 1995, which regulates commercial fisheries, including aquaculture, and establishes objectives aimed at achieving ecologically sustainable development with reference to the maintenance of aquatic processes and genetic diversity;
• the Flora and Fauna Guarantee Act 1988, which provides for the protection and conservation of native flora and fauna; and
• the Livestock Disease Control Act 1994, which is administered by the Victorian Department of Environment and Primary Industries (DEPI) Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) and aims to control the introduction and spread of animal diseases in Victoria.

Policy

The National Policy for the Translocation of Aquatic Animals – Issues, Principles and Implementation (Bureau of Rural Sciences, 1999) provides a risk assessment framework for adoption by all states and territories to assist in managing the risks associated with translocation. The Guidelines for Assessing Translocations of Live Aquatic Organisms in Victoria (Department of Environment and Primary Industries, 2003) provides the policy framework for implementing this policy in Victoria.

Where translocations are likely to be repeated and have similar characteristics (e.g. species, associated media and source and destination locations), preference will be given to the development of translocation protocols that are consistent with the Victorian translocation guidelines. The DEPI has the lead role in developing protocols for the translocation of aquatic animals in Victoria.

Proposals to undertake a translocation that conforms to a protocol will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Proponents must demonstrate compliance with the appropriate protocol through application for authorisations under the Fisheries Act 1995, i.e. a licence or permit.

The Victorian RAS aquaculture industry

In 2005/06 there were 22 licensed commercial, three educational and one government research RAS facility in Victoria (Table 1). Several operators hold more than one licence thus authorising them to produce multiple species groups.

Table 1. RAS in Victoria 2005/06 (Department of Environment and Primary Industries 2007; unpublished data).

	Number of RAS
Commercial systems	22
Government, training, and research and development	4
Total Number of RAS	26

In terms of the number of farms and production volume, Murray cod (Maccullochella peelii peelii) and barramundi, (Lates calcarifer) are the principle species produced in Victorian RAS. Barramundi is a popular choice for aquaculture in RAS due to its relatively short production cycle, recognised market and tolerance to a range of water quality conditions.

In recent times, production of shortfin and longfin eels (Anguilla australis and A. reinhardtii, respectively) has increased with most production exported to Asia. As the life-cycle of these species is not closed, glass eels, juvenile-stage or larger eels for stocking in RAS must be obtained from the wild or from other licensed producers.

Small amounts of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss), silver perch (Bidyanus bidyanus), golden perch (Macquaria ambigua) and yabbies (Cherax destructor) are produced in Victorian RAS facilities. A variety of species including Australian bass (M. novemaculeata), black bream (Acanthopagrus butcheri), sleepy cod (Oxyeleotris lineolata) and snapper (Pagrus auratus) have been trialled or produced in RAS for research and restocking purposes.

Technological and economic efficiency improvements may lead to further expansion and development of RAS in terms of the numbers of sites and the range of species cultured.

Production level. Approximately 71 per cent of RAS facilities produce less than ten tonnes per annum. All government and training facilities and most research and development facilities fall within this group. Nineteen per cent of RAS facilities produce between ten and 50 tonnes per annum and the remainder, 9.5 per cent, produce more than 50 tonnes per annum.

Risks associated with translocating aquatic animals in Victoria

Translocation of aquatic organisms is recognised as a potentially threatening process to the environment, particularly where species are translocated outside of their natural range.

In general, risks associated with the translocation of aquatic organisms relate to:

• the release of translocated species;
• establishment of introduced and non-endemic populations in Victorian waters;
• genetic shifts in wild populations;
• disease and parasite introduction; and
• chemical release.

As aquaculture in RAS present opportunities to utilise a range of species within and outside of their natural range, it is important to identify and manage the risks associated with this activity. Aquaculture and fishing industries should take a pro-active role in managing this issue to ensure

risks are appropriately managed and community confidence is maintained.

In summary, this protocol considers translocation issues related to species classes as described under the risk categories below.

The number and diversity of species grown in RAS makes assessment of the specific risks associated with individual translocations complex. While risk profiles associated with each species vary, species may be grouped into similar risk categories for management purposes. These categories are based on a preliminary screening of environmental risks including disease, genetic impact and history of establishing populations in Victoria and elsewhere. Risk category 1 (i.e. translocations of endemic species) represents a lower relative risk, whilst risk category 3 (i.e. translocations of non-established species) represents higher relative risk.

In preparing this translocation protocol, a comprehensive assessment of the environmental risks of translocating live aquatic organisms to RAS was undertaken by an expertise-based risk assessment panel. The results of this risk assessment are summarised in the following section and fully described in Appendix A.

The licence or permit holder is required to demonstrate the risk category that the species proposed for translocation falls within. This process begins with the submission of an Initial Screening Application to Fisheries Victoria in accordance with the Guidelines for Assessing Translocations of Live Aquatic Animals in Victoria (Department of Environment and Primary Industries, 2003).

Risk category 1: Translocating endemic species within their natural range in Victoria

Examples of species in this category are listed in Table 2 and include endemic species obtained from, and translocated within, Victoria. 

The appropriateness of a species for inclusion in this category may be assessed by the Translocation Evaluation Panel (TEP) upon application.

Common name	Scientific name	Natural range
Murray cod	Maccullochella peelii peelii	North of the Great Dividing Range
Golden perch	Macquaria ambigua	North of the Great Dividing Range
Silver perch	Bidyanus bidyanus	North of the Great Dividing Range
Yabbies	Cherax destructor	West of the Snowy River

Risk category 2: Translocating endemicspecies sourced from interstate and established species into or within Victoria

Examples of species in this category are listed in Table 3 and include:

• endemic species translocated within their natural range where the stock are sourced from interstate;
• endemic species translocated outside of their natural range; and
• species that are established in the same region
  or catchment.

The appropriateness of a species for inclusion in this category may be assessed by the TEP upon application.
Vic

Table 3: Examples of species in risk category 2. 

Common name	Scientific name	range
Rainbow trout	Oncorhynchus mykiss	Widely distributed in cooler waters of north-central and western Victoria
Chinook salmon Atlantic	Oncorhynchus tschawytscha Salmo salar	Patchy distribution based on restocking waters and flow through salmonid farms
European carp	Cyprinus carpio	Widely distributed in inland waters of Victoria
Redfin	Perca fluviatilisr	West of the Snowy River
Endemic species
Murray cod	Maccullochella peelii peelii	Refer Table 2
Golden perch	Macquaria ambigua
Silver perch	Bidyanus bidyanus
Yabbies	Cherax destructor

Risk category 3: Translocating non-established species into or within Victoria

Examples of species in this category are listed in Table 4 and include species that are not established in a region or catchment.

The appropriateness of a species for inclusion in this category may be assessed by the TEP upon application.

Table 4: Examples of species in risk category 3.

Common name	Scientific name	Natural range
Barramundi	Lates calcarifer	Native to sub-tropical and tropical Australian waters
Tilapia	Oreochromis spp.; Tilapia spp.	Not native to Australia but present in northern states
Jade perch	Scortum barcoo	Native to central and north-eastern Australia
Marine prawns	Penaeus spp.	Some species are native to northern Australia

Summary of risk assessment process

Method

A risk assessment was conducted according to the Department of Environment and Primary Industries Strategic Enterprise Risk Management Framework which is based on the Australian/New Zealand Standard for Risk Management (Department of Environment and Primary Industries, 2004; AS/NZS, 1995).

A panel with expert knowledge of the risks and control measures necessary to address translocation was assembled and included:

• Dr Mehdi Doroudi. Research Director, Marine and Freshwater Systems, DEPI (Aquatic animal health);
• Mr Anthony Forster. Aquaculture Manager, Fisheries Victoria. (Fisheries policy);
• Mr Wayne Fulton. Statewide Leader, Marine and Freshwater Systems (Freshwater fisheries research);
• Ms Fiona Gavine. Senior Scientist, Marine and Freshwater Systems, DEPI (Inland aquaculture research and risk assessment facilitation);
• Dr Paul Hardy-Smith. Panaquatic Health Solutions Pty Ltd (Aquatic animal health);
• Dr Paul Harrison. Barramundi producer, Mainstream Aquaculture (RAS industry);
• Dr Brett Ingram. Senior Scientist, Marine and Freshwater Systems, DEPI (Inland aquaculture research);
• Mr Peter Lawson. Aquaculture Development Officer, Fisheries Victoria (Aquaculture regulation and policy);
• Mr Bill Lussier. Aquaculture Policy Officer (Inland), Fisheries Victoria (Fisheries policy); and
• Dr Nick Robinson. Senior Scientist, Animal Genetics and Genomics, DEPI (Genetics).

The evaluation of specific risks associated with the translocation of aquatic animals grown in RAS was undertaken using standard risk assessment criteria. Risks were numerically ranked according to their likelihood and consequences, using standard risk assessment criteria and the numbers added to produce a risk rating (refer below).

Likelihood rating

Likelihood Rating	Description	Likelihood of Occurrence
1	Rare	Event may occur only in exceptional circumstances
2	Unlikely	The event may occur at some time, say once in ten years
3	Moderate	The event should occur at some time, say once in three years
4	Likely	The event will probably occur in most circumstances, say once a year
5	Almost Certain	The event is expected to occur in most circumstances, say many times a month

Consequence rating

ConsequenceRating	Description	Consequence
5	Catastrophic	Serious long-term or widespread environmental harm.
4	Major	Significant environmental harm with long-term recovery
3	Moderate	Moderate harm with midterm recover
2	Minor	Transient environmental harm
1	Insignificant	Brief pollution with effective remediation

Risk rating

Risk Rating	Score	Management action
High	≥ 8	Requires detailed research, planning and decision making at senior levels of management
Significant	7	Senior management attention and action needed
Moderate	5-6	Management responsibility must be specified
Low	≤ 4	No major concernVictorian

Recirculating aquaculture systems: the risk-assessment base case

The base case for assessing translocation risks includes the following assumptions about RAS. These characteristics are broadly represented across RAS farming operations in Victoria and thus provide the risk-assessment base case:

• they are enclosed within fixed-wall sheds, greenhouses or structure that exclude disease vectors such as birds and rodents;
• they have the capacity for a high level of on-farm biosecurity (i.e. separation from external environment; Appendices B and C);
• the environmental conditions within the facility
  (e.g. temperature, water chemistry) may be controlled;
• they generally use dedicated mechanical and biological filtration systems;
• their level of effluent as a proportion of system volume is relatively low and discharged from a point-source;
• the effluent is discharged to mains sewer or to land at a suitable distance from waterways to ensure none can reach waterways (i.e. there is no direct discharge to surface waters); and
• the operator is authorised under the Fisheries Act 1995 to undertake aquaculture for commercial purposes.

Results

The results of the risk assessment are detailed in Appendix A of this document.

The risk assessment process identified no high risks. This is not unusual given that RAS provide a relatively high level of biosecurity and operational and risk management control.

Significant and moderate risks were identified in the risk categories related to disease and establishment of introduced and non-endemic populations.

For each risk, proportionate translocation controls have been established.

Aquatic animal disease

The introduction into Victoria of any of the notifiable diseases listed in Appendix D could cause severe biological and economic consequences to aquaculture and recreational fisheries.

Two Office International des Epizooties (OIE) notifiable diseases are known to occur in Victorian waters: epizootic haematopoietic necrosis virus (EHN) and goldfish ulcerative disease (GUD). 

Viral encephalopathy and retinopathy, a disease caused by a nodavirus, formerly referred to as barramundi picorna-like virus, is common in barramundi and has been associated with mass mortalities of hatchery-raised juvenile fish. Although it has not been recorded in Victoria, it is considered a potential risk to aquaculture facilities and endemic species.

The fungal disease epizootic ulcerative syndrome (EUS) occurs in fish from freshwater and estuarine systems and has been detected on one occasion in Victoria and eradicated. Outbreaks of EUS in New South Wales, east of the Great Dividing Range (Callinan, et al. 1999), have caused significant economic damage.

Introduced and non-endemic species

Populations of introduced and non-endemic fish can result from escape or release of these species (Department of Environment and Primary Industries, 2003). Twelve introduced species, including European carp and mosquitofish (i.e. Gambusia sp.), both declared as noxious species in Victoria, have become established in Victoria (Arthington, 1991). Both species have expanded well beyond the initial points of stocking or escape.

Endemic species may also become established in areas where they are not naturally found. For example, Murray-Darling Basin species, including Murray cod, golden perch, silver perch, trout cod and Macquarie perch, have established populations outside of their natural range but have not extended significantly beyond the point of the original translocation (Cadwallader and Backhouse, 1983).

Following escape or release, the establishment of an aquatic species depends upon its ability to survive, grow, reach reproductive maturity and successfully reproduce in the new environment. Factors that affect the likelihood of establishment include:

• Victoria's temperate climate is unsuitable for most tropical and subtropical species (e.g. barramundi and tilapia) although some species may acclimate to the new environment (Atwood, et al. 2003)
• the presence of environmental requirements to complete the species' life cycle; and
• species' food and habitat requirements. Prevention of escape is the most effective method for preventing the establishment of such populations.

Protocols for the translocation of aquatic animals to RAS

The outcomes of the risk assessment identified several key risks that warrant management responsibility and attention (Appendix A). An initial assessment of the translocation risks identified three discrete risk categories:

• low risk: endemic species within their natural range in Victoria;
• moderate risk: endemic species sourced from interstate and established species into and within Victoria; and
• significant risk: non-established species into and
  within Victoria.

The inherent design characteristics of RAS (refer base case in previous section) minimise the likelihood of stock escape and resultant impacts of escaped species on endemic stocks. Thus, low and moderate risk can be effectively mitigated through adoption by licence and permit holders of industry-standard RAS design, operational controls (Appendix B) and disease management practises. These controls can be further adapted for the purposes of farming species of significant risk (Appendix C).

For each translocation pathway, control measures specify minimum standards to manage environmental risks.

All translocation records must be kept for a minimum of three years after the date of the last translocation event.

Pathway 1: Translocation within Victoria of endemic fish within natural range
The licence or permit holder is required to:

1.1. Meet RAS biosecurity measures as described in Appendix B.
1.2. Demonstrate an ongoing stock health surveillance program that meets DEPI requirements in accordance with Appendix E; or Obtain a declaration, issued by the supplier, that there have been no notifiable diseases (Livestock Disease Control Act 1994) or unexplained disease outbreaks at the source facility in the past 24 months (Appendix F);
or Obtain a certificate of stock health in accordance with Appendices G and H.

Pathway 2: Translocation within Victoria of endemic fish outside of natural range

2.1. Refer control 1.1; and
2.2. Refer control 1.2.

Pathway 3: Translocation from interstate of endemic fish

3.1. Refer control 1.1;
3.2. Refer control 1.2; and
3.3. At least two business days prior to the proposed translocation, provide to the DEPI all transportation details for stock entering Victoria (Appendix F).

Pathway 4: Translocation within Victoria of introduced fish established in region or catchment

4.1. Refer control 1.1; and
4.2. Refer control 1.2.

Pathway 5: Translocation from interstate of introduced fish established in catchment or region

5.1. Refer control 1.1;
5.2. Refer control 1.2; and
5.3. At least two business days prior to the proposed translocation, provide to the DEPI all transportation details for stock entering Victoria (Appendix F).

Pathway 6: Translocation within Victoria of non-endemic or introduced fish not established within catchment or region

6.1. Refer control 1.1;
6.2. Refer control 1.2; and
6.3. Meet additional RAS biosecurity standards as described in Appendix C.

Pathway 7: Translocation from interstate of non-endemic or introduced fish not established within catchment or region

7.1. Refer control 1.1;
7.2. Refer control 6.3;
7.3. Demonstrate an ongoing stock health surveillance program that meets DEPI requirements in accordance with Appendix E; or
Obtain a certificate of stock health in accordance with Appendices G and H; and
7.4. At least two business days prior to the proposed translocation, provide to the DEPI all transportation details for stock entering Victoria (Appendix F).

Pathway 8: Disposal of aquatic species and remaining water following the translocation

8.1. Disposal or water discharged during or following a translocation event must be undertaken in accordance with Appendix I;
and
8.2. Disposal of aquatic species during or following a translocation event must be undertaken in accordance with the relevant legislation.

Acknowledgements

This translocation protocol was developed by the DEPI with input from a range of industry and government stakeholders. In drafting the document, specific mention should be made of the contributions of Anthony Forster, Fiona Gavine, Peter Lawson and Bill Lussier. Dr Tracey Bradley, Principal Veterinary Officer Aquatic Animal Health, DEPI, provided important input during the preparation of this protocol.

The invaluable contribution of the expert risk assessment panel also deserves mention: Dr Mehdi Doroudi, PIRVic; Mr Wayne Fulton, PIRVic; Dr Paul Hardy-Smith, Panaquatic Health Solutions Pty Ltd; Dr Paul Harrison, Mainstream Aquaculture; Dr Brett Ingram, PIRVic; and Dr Nick Robinson, PIRVic.

References

Arthington, AH (1991). Ecological and genetic impacts of introduced and translocated freshwater fishes in Australia. Can. J. Fish. Aquatic. Sci., Vol. 48 (Suppl. 1), 1991.

AS/NZS (1995). Australian/New Zealand Standard for Risk Management (AS/NZS 4360:1995). Standards Australia/Standards New Zealand.

Atwood, HL, Tomasso, JR, Webb, K and Gatlin, DM. III (2003). Low-temperature tolerance of Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus: effects of environmental and dietary factors. Aquaculture Research, 2003, 34, 241-251.

Bureau of Rural Sciences (1999). National Policy for the Translocation of Aquatic Animals – Issues, Principles and Implementation. Fisheries and Forestry Science Division. Canberra.

Cadwallader, PL and Backhouse, GN (1983). A Guide to the Freshwater Fish of Victoria. Victorian Government Bookshop, Melbourne, Victoria.

Callinan, RB, Rowland, SJ, Jiang, L and Mifsud, C (1999). Outbreaks of epizootic ulcerative syndrome (EUS) in farmed silver perch Bidyanus bidyanus in New South Wales, Australia. In: World Aquaculture Society (1999). The Annual International Conference and Exposition of the World Aquaculture Society. Book of abstracts. 26 April – 2 May, 1999. Sydney. p127.

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (2005). National list of reportable diseases of aquatic animals (August 2005). Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Commonwealth of Australia.

Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (2006). A Strategic Approach to the Management of Ornamental Fish in Australia: Consultation. Marine and Coastal Committee, Natural Resource Management Ministerial Council, 2006. Bureau of Rural Sciences, Commonwealth of Australia.

Department of Environment and Primary Industries (2003).Guidelines for the Translocation of Live Aquatic Organisms in Victoria.

Department of Environment and Primary Industries Melbourne, Victoria.

Department of Environment and Primary Industries (2004). Strategic Enterprise Risk Management Framework. Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Melbourne, Victoria.

Department of Environment and Primary Industries (2005). Protocols for the Translocation of Fish in Victorian Inland Public Waters. Fisheries Report Management Report Series No. 24. Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Melbourne, Victoria.

Department of Environment and Primary Industries (2006). Victorian Protocol for the Translocation of Eels. Fisheries Report Management Series No. 27. May 2006. Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Melbourne, Victoria.

Department of Environment and Primary Industries (2007). Fisheries Victoria Commercial Fish Production Information Bulletin 2006. Primary Industries Research Victoria, Queenscliff Victoria.

Gavine F, Larkin B, and Edwards M (in press). Best Practice Environmental Management Guidelines for Recirculating Aquaculture Systems. Fisheries Victoria Research Report Series No. 27. Department of Environment and Primary Industries, Melbourne, Victoria.

OIE (2006a). Aquatic Animal Health Code. Ninth Edition, Office International des Epizooties, 2006, Paris, France. (www.oie.int)

OIE (2006b). Manual of Diagnostic Tests for Aquatic Animals. Fifth Edition, Office International des Epizooties, 2006, Paris, France. (www.oie.int).Office of Regulatory Reform (1999). Final Report: Office of Regulatory Reform Task Force Review of Regulatory Arrangements in the Victorian Aquaculture Industry. Office of Regulatory Reform, Melbourne. 55 pp.

Appendix A: Assessing the risks oftranslocating aquatic animals in RAS

The primary objectives in developing this translocation protocol are to preserve the natural and farmed stocks of Victorian aquatic animals and to ensure that translocations do not adversely impact Victorian inland waters.

In accordance with the Guidelines for Assessing Translocations of Live Aquatic Organisms in Victoria (Department of Environment and Primary Industries, 2003), a risk assessment panel was convened to identify and assess the risks of introducing diseases and the environmental/ecological consequences of translocations.

Refer to the section of the protocol entitled Summary of risk assessment process for more details on the risk assessment process.

 MAJOR RISK CATEGORY – ENVIRONMENTAL (Short term) 

Risk Category	Specific Risk	Likelihood	Consequence	Risk Rating	Comments
Impact of transient species (short-term impacts)	Escaped native1 species could outcompete, displace, prey on, or alter the habitats of native fish species.	3	2	5 (Moderate)	These issues are related to the short-term impacts of escaped fish, whereas the establishment of feral populations is a long-term impact. Impacts will depend on the number of escapees and frequency of escapes. This category does not cover recruitment – only the impacts of individual escapees. As escape from RAS is unlikely and such systems are usually isolated from watercourses, impacts (and therefore consequences) are likely to be localised. Short to medium-term impacts depends on species longevity. It is also likely that fish cultured in RAS will be less well adapted to the Victorian environment than wild fish.
	Escaped introduced species could outcompete, displace, prey on, or alter the habitats of native fish species.	3	2	5 (Moderate)	In this context "introduced" species includes native fish outside of their natural range. Again, impacts will depend on number of escapees and frequency of escapes. Likelihood of escape from RAS is low and impacts will occur only if significant numbers are lost.
	Escaped nonendemic species could out-compete, displace, prey on, or alter the habitats of native fish species.	3	2	5 (Moderate)	The impact of non-endemic species will be species specific and there is a need to consider its ability to adapt, its longevity, thermal tolerance and feeding habits, as well as other factors. In general, temperate species would be expected to last longer than tropical species.

MAJOR RISK CATEGORY – ENVIRONMENTAL (Long-term) 

Risk Category	Specific Risk	Likelihood	Consequence	Risk Rating	Comments
Feral populations	Escape of native finfish and yabbies translocated outside of their natural range could establish populations outside of their natural range.	1	4	5 (Moderate)	A feral population was defined as a self-sustaining population. All life forms of the species must be considered. Where native fish have been translocated outside of their natural range in the past, feral populations have been established. However, feral native fish populations tend to remain local to the point of translocation rather than spreading widely (but there are no hard and fast rules about this). The consequences of feral populations being established will depend on the circumstances of the translocation. A score of 4 (major) would be the worst case scenario.
Feral populations	Introduced fish translocated outside of their current range could establish feral populations.	2	4	6 (Moderate)	The expert panel considered it more likely that introduced fish would establish feral/nuisance populations, as these fish tend to be more cosmopolitan. Many species have already shown that they can establish feral populations after introduction (e.g. . carp and redfin)
Feral populations	Non-established, non-endemic species translocated into Victoria could establish feral populations.	1	5	6 (moderate)	Depends on the nature of the translocated fish, their environmental requirements and the receiving environment. Barramundi would be unlikely to survive and breed. However, there are concerns that tilapia could adapt to cool temperatures. Temperate non-endemic species would generally be considered a higher risk than tropical species. This risk could also include non-endemic (to Victoria) strains of native species.

MAJOR RISK CATEGORY – GENETICS

Risk Category	Specific Risk	Likelihood	Consequence	Risk Rating	Comments
Genetic	Escaped, native, unselected finfish and yabbies translocated within their natural range could cause a genetic shift in wild populations	1	3	4 (Low)	Risk depends on the genetic structure of wild populations, numbers of escapees and extent of genetic difference between wild population and escapees. Events like this could cause some allele differences, but what would be classified as a significant genetic difference? Factors to consider when assessing this risk includes the number of escapees, likelihood of survival and reproduction, number (and fertility) of viable offspring. Does this apply to genetic shifts to feral/introduced populations as a consequence of escaped native populations? Likelihood of genetic shift occurring as a result of this translocation is low. However, the consequences if a large genetic shift did occur could be significant. It is possible that the long-term genetic impact will be low as natural selection will favour animals with a genetic makeup that is well suited to the local environment and these animals are likely to be ones with a similar genetic makeup to that which existed in the wild population before the event. Golden perch sub-species or strains (external to MD basin) could also be used in farms. Similarly, different strains of silver perch east and west of the divide. Onus on proponent to prove strain of stock. Also, translocation of Murray cod within their natural range could impact on the genetic integrity of trout cod populations (hybridisation).
Genetic	Escaped, native, domesticated or selected finfish and yabbies translocated within their natural range could cause a genetic shift in wild populations.	1	4	5 (Moderate)	Likelihood is still scored as low, as escaped fish will not be as well adapted as wild fish. Consequences will be major if it does happen. Escaped fish will be different from wild populations but it is still unlikely that they could survive and breed in sufficient numbers to cause genetic shift. Selection/domestication in the RAS environment could make it less likely that escaped fish would survive and breed in the wild. Depends on traits selected, intensity of selection and extent of inadvertent selection for particular traits. Also, translocation of Murray cod within their natural range could impact on the genetic integrity of trout cod populations (hybridisation).
Genetic	Escaped, introduced, unselected species translocated within their current range could cause a genetic shift in wild populations.	1	3	4 (Low)	e.g. carp, redfin, rainbow trout. Risk depends on genetic structure of wild populations of the translocated species. Factors that should be considered include number of escapees as well as likelihood of survival, reproduction, number (and fertility) of viable offspring. Likelihood of it occurring is rare. Consequences if it did occur would be significant. Could revert back over time due to natural selection because the genetic makeup of the wild population is likely to be the best adapted to the natural environment.
Genetic	Escaped, introduced species, domesticated or selected translocated within their current range could cause a genetic shift in wild populations.	1	4	5 (Moderate)	e.g. carp, redfin, rainbow trout. Likelihood is still low as fish will not be as well adapted as established fish. Consequences will be major if it does happen. Escaped fish will be different from wild but still unlikely that they could survive and breed in sufficient numbers to cause genetic shift. Selection/domestication in the RAS environment may make it less likely that escaped fish could survive and breed in the wild. Depends on traits selected, intensity of selection and extent of inadvertent selection for particular traits.

MAJOR RISK CATEGORY – DISEASE

Risk Category	Specific Risk	Likelihood	Consequence	Risk Rating	Comments
Disease status of facility and source stock known	Release and establishment of disease from native fish.	1	2-3	3-4 (Low)	This risk relates to the release and establishment of disease through the escape of fish or water.
	Release and establishment of disease from introduced fish.	1	2-3	3-4 (Low)	This risk relates to the release and establishment of disease through the escape of fish or water.
	Release and establishment of disease from non-endemic fish.	1	5	6 (Moderate)	Likelihood is low but consequences are major/catastrophic. With nodavirus, may depend on age. Presumes thorough testing and no diseases of concern detected.
	Disposal of water results in transfer of infectious water to the environment	1	2	3 (Low)	Likelihood is low due to good knowledge of health status.
Disease status of facility and source stock unknown	Release and establishment of disease from native fish.	2	3-4	5-6 (Moderate)	Consequence is higher due to lack of data – default to worst-case scenario.
	Release and establishment of disease from introduced fish.	2	4-5	6-7 (Moderate-significant)	Potential for viral diseases e.g. Epizootic haematopoieticnecrosis (EHN).
	Release and establishment of disease from non-endemic fish.	2	5	7 (Significant)	Environmental conditions not conducive to spread of barramundi picorna-like virus (BPLV), but could be conducive in summer.
	Disposal of water results in transfer of infectious water to the environment	2	3	5( Moderate)

Appendix B: General RAS biosecurity standards

Stock containment and effluent management

B1. Farm screens, barriers, nets, sluices or other equipment designed to contain fish within the farm must be securely fastened in place, in proper working order and an appropriate size to prevent fish escape.

B2. Effluent must be discharged to land a suitable distance from waterways to ensure none can reach waterways or to mains sewer
(e.g. there can be no direct discharge to surface waters).

Disinfection/hygiene practices

B3. Ensure that accumulated organic matter (e.g. faeces, uneaten feed, mortalities and fouling organisms) in culture units does not compromise stock health and contribute to an increased risk of disease.

B4. Dry out and or disinfected culture units between consignments of stock.

B5. Regularly inspect, clean and, where possible, disinfect waste water outlet channels and pipes.

B6. Foot baths must be provided at key locations and maintained to provide effective disinfection at all times.

B7. Remove dead and moribund stock from the culture units as soon aspractical but at least daily.

B8. Dispose of all mortalities in a manner consistent with relevant legislation.

Staff movements

B9. Equipment, protective clothing or footwear that will contact stock or water used to hold stock must be cleaned and disinfected prior to use (Appendix I).

B10. Footwear worn by staff and visitors within the RAS facility should not be removed from the facility.

B11. Use dedicated equipment and/or protective clothing for specific areas (e.g. broodstock, nursery, growout) of the site.

B12. Restrict staff movement to those areas where they undertake regular duties.

B13. To minimise contamination risk, restrict or control public access and movement throughout the aquaculture site.

Stock monitoring

B14. Undertake daily inspections of aquaculture stock for disease, morbidity or unusual behaviour which may indicate the presence of disease.

Record keeping

B15. Retain accurate records including: the number and species of stock held in each culture vessel, stocking rates, mortalities, incidence of significant stressors and observations of fish health.

B16. Maintain an accurate record of all translocation movements to and from the aquaculture site including: the location and contact details of the supplier or receiver, date of supply and the numbers and species of stock translocated.

B17. Records must be kept for three years after the date of the last entry.

Reporting requirements

B18. In the event of significant mortality² or suspected disease the licence holder is required to inform DEPI within 24 hours.

B19. On request, make available to DEPI samples of the infected stock for the purpose of pathological examinations.

Post-translocation quarantine

B20. To lower the risk of cross-contamination, translocated stock must be quarantined or kept separate from resident stock for a  minimum period of three weeks after arrival. Quarantine or separation involves maintaining stock in individual growing units, using dedicated equipment (e.g. nets, cleaning equipment) and controlling access by personnel.

Appendix C: RAS biosecurity standards fornon-endemic species

In addition to the general RAS biosecurity standards specified in Appendix B, the following standards are required for RAS in which non-endemic species are stocked. Relevant disinfection, containment and transport procedures are discussed in Appendix I.

Biosecurity and facility management

C1. Fish should be transported in accordance with OIE disinfection, transport and containment procedures. Transport media used for the translocation of non-endemic fish species must be disinfected according to standard OIE procedures.

C2. Hand-washing basins will be located at all key access points and staff must disinfect hands prior to exiting the facility.

Standards for new aquaculture licences applications

C3. The aquaculture facility must be located above the 1 in 100 year flood level.

C4. The aquaculture facility must be located a sufficient distance from permanent or intermittent waterways to minimise the risk of stock escape or transfer of disease from the facility. For the DEPI to assess the location of the facility, the applicant must submit a detailed site plan showing: proximity of surface waters, land use, surface topography, nature of vegetation and any other relevant information.

C5. The aquaculture facility shall be fully enclosed with a non-permeable floor capable of being cleaned and disinfected.

C6. The aquaculture facility will be designed to reduce the likelihood of contamination by and movement of vermin that may provide a vector for disease transfer.

C7. A waterproof bund wall of sufficient height to retain the total volume of water contained within the facility is required to prevent its accidental release into a waterway.

C8. The facility must be designed to ensure there is no discharge of untreated liquid effluent outside of the RAS facility. All solid and liquid wastes will be disinfected according to the standard OIE procedures.

Additional controls related to barramundi

C9. No barramundi eggs or larvae shall be transported into Victoria.

C10. All barramundi fingerlings must be greater than 42 days old prior to translocation into Victoria.

C11. Hatchery production of barramundi will not be permitted within on-growing facilities.

Appendix D: Notifiable diseases in aquatic animals

Diseases of finfish listed as notifiable and reportable (Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, 2005; OIE, 2006a; Livestock Disease Control Act 1994 (Victoria).

Disease	Office International des Epizootics (OIE)	Department of Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry (DAFF)	Livestock Disease Control Act 1994
Aeromonas salmonicida (atypical strains)		Reportable	Notifiable
(Goldfish Ulcerative Disease)
Aeromonas salmonicida var. salmonicida (furunculosis)		Reportable	Notifiable
Bacterial kidney disease (Renibacterium salmoninarum)	Other significant	Reportable	Notifiable
Channel catfish virus diseases	Other significant	Reportable	Notifiable
Enteric redmouth disease (Yersinia ruckeri)		Reportable	Notifiable
Enteric septicaemia of catfish (Edwardsiella ictaluri)	Other significant	Reportable	Notifiable
Epizootic haematopoietic necrosis (EHN)	Notifiable	Reportable	Notifiable
Epizootic ulcerative syndrome (EUS)	Notifiable	Reportable	Notifiable
Grouper iridoviral disease			Notifiable
Gyrodactylosis (Gyrodactylus salaris)	Notifiable	Reportable	Notifiable
Infectious haematopoietic necrosis	Notifiable	Reportable	Notifiable
Infectious pancreatic necrosis	Other significant	Reportable	Notifiable
Infectious salmon anaemia	Notifiable	Reportable	Notifiable
Koi mass mortality			Notifiable
Koi herpesvirus infection	Notifiable	Reportable	Notifiable
Oncorhynchus masou virus disease	Notifiable	Reportable	Notifiable
Piscirickettsiosis (Piscirickettsia salmonis)	Other significant	Reportable	Notifiable
Red sea bream iridoviral disease	Notifiable		Notifiable
Spring viraemia of carp	Notifiable	Reportable	Notifiable
Viral encephalopathy and retinopathy (a	Other significant	Reportable	Notifiable
nodavirus also known as viral nervous necrosis)
Viral haemorrhagic septicaemia	Notifiable	Reportable	Notifiable
Whirling disease		Reportable	Notifiable
White sturgeon iridoviral disease	Other significant	Reportable	Notifiable

Appendix E: Health surveillance program for RAS

Notes to licence holder:

E1. A well-structured active surveillance program is an internationally recognised means of demonstrating the health status of both stock and aquaculture facilities. If endorsed, such a program will:
(i) enable market access and trade;
(ii) facilitate translocation of live product;
(iii) improve farm productivity and husbandry responsiveness; and
(iv) reduce potential impacts to the environment.

E2. All fish health surveillance program(s) referenced in this protocol refer to those that fulfill the requirements in AQUAPLAN or World Organisation for Animal Health manuals.

E3. It is recommended that licence holders wishing to prepare a fish health surveillance program seek endorsement of their program from the DEPI.

E4. AQUAPLAN is Australia's National Strategic Plan for Aquatic Animal Health. It is a broad comprehensive strategy to build and enhance capacity for the management of aquatic animal health in Australia.

E5. The World Organisation for Animal Health provides internationally recognised standards for developing and implementing targeted fish health surveillance programs for aquaculture businesses.

E6. Prior to developing a fish health surveillance program, it is recommended that licence holders review AQUAPLAN and Chapter 1.1.4 "Requirements for surveillance for international recognition of freedom from infection" in the Manual of Diagnostic Tests for Aquatic Animals (OIE, 2006b).

E7. The DEPI criteria for assessing fish health surveillance programs will be drawn from AQUAPLAN and World Organisation forAnimal Health manuals.

Appendix F: Example form: supplier notifiable disease declaration, statement of compliance and transportation details

I (Name): ......................................................................................................................................................

Position: ......................................................................................................................................................

of (Company): ............................................................................................................................................

Address: .....................................................................................................................................................

declare * that there have been no notifiable diseases or unexplained disease outbreaks at the above facility during the past twenty-four months.

Signed): .......................................................................................................................................................

Date: .............................................................................................................................................................

 

I further declare that for the consignment of:

Species: ......................................................................................................................................................

translocated to:

Company: ....................................................................................................................................................

Address: .....................................................................................................................................................

On (Date): ....................................................................................................................................................

the Company has taken the following steps to ensure that non-specified species have not been included on the stock or in the associated transport media:

.......................................................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................................................

Signed: .......................................................................................................................................................

Date ...........................................................................................................................................................

* Section 7 of the Livestock Disease Control Act 1994 (the Act) provides that a person who knows or has reason to suspect that a disease is present in fish must notify an inspector of stock authorised under the Act. Penalty: 240 units or two years imprisonment or both, in the case of an exotic disease; 120 penalty units or one year imprisonment or both, in the case of any other disease.

Transportation details

Provide details regarding the transportation of animals in Victoria including the mode of transport, flight details, courier/carrier name, address, telephone/fax contact details and consignment number if relevant.

.......................................................................................................................................................................

......................................................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................................................

.......................................................................................................................................................................

Please use extra paper if required

 

Appendix G: Batch certification requirements for aquatic animals

Aquaculture licence holders must meet or exceed the following requirements in order to achieve required DEPI standards for batch certification

G1. Obtain a certificate of stock health from aDEPI-approved veterinarian³certifying that the proposed consignment of fish is free of notifiable diseases (Livestock Disease Control Act 1994; Appendix H). This certificate will be based on:

1. A visit to the premises by the approved veterinarian to inspect the health status of the stock for the presence of clinically abnormal fish and a review of relevant farm records4 and farm biosecurity.
2. Where there has been no previous pathological testing of stock, pathological examination of stock that would enable, at the 95% confidence level, certification that a notifiable disease is not present in the population of animals tested, based on an assumed pathogen prevalence of 2% or above. Fish for this sampling must be collected by the approved veterinarian at the time of the visit to the premises. Bias in the sampling should be made towards animals showing clinical signs of disease or showing signs of weakness when handled (i.e.moribund). For a single batch test, the sample numbers required for these default values (i.e. 95% confidence, 2% prevalence) are provided in Table 1, Chapter I.1 and I.3 of the OIE Manual of Diagnostic Tests for Aquatic Animals (2006b), i.e. 150 animals for these parameters ⁵.
3. Historical pathological testing of stock can provide useful information and can be used as evidence in certifying freedom from disease. The usefulness of this information depends on several factors including the premises' biosecurity measures during the relevant historical period and whether the animal populations to be translocated were part of a formal health monitoring and surveillance program. The approved veterinarian may elect to reduce the number of stock sampled for pathological testing based on assessment of the historical information.

G2. Notifiable diseases (Livestock Disease Control Act 1994) may not be relevant to all of the species for which authority to translocate is sought. The approved veterinarian is required to identify the notifiable diseases relevant to the species for which the stock health certificate is issued and demonstrate that the sampling methodology is appropriate for those notifiable diseases.

G3. All stock, including larvae, to be translocated from licensed interstate aquaculture sites, must be accompanied by a statement from the supplier detailing the steps taken to eliminate non-specified species from the consignment and signed by the responsible licence holder or delegate.

G4. The certificate of stock health will be valid for a maximum period of two weeks from the date of issue and will be invalidated if there is evidence of disease, significant or unexplained mortality, and/or co-mingling with other stock that may compromise the health status of the batch.

Appendix H: Example form: fish health batch certification

Section 7 of the Livestock Disease Control Act 1994 (the Act) provides that a person who knows or has reason to suspect that a disease is present in fish must notify an inspector of stock authorised under the Act.

Penalty: 240 units or two years imprisonment or both, in the case of an exotic disease; 120 penalty units orone year imprisonment or both, in the case of any other disease.

1. Destination of stock (full contact details, The Victorian Fisheries Authority licence or permit number):

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

2. Species: Finfish Crustacean Other

Common Name: _________________________________________

Scientific Name: _________________________________________

3. Age of stock: Days post hatching _____________ Other _____________

4. Size of stock: _____________

5. Numbers of animals for shipment: _____________

6. Batch identification number(s): _____________

7. Supplier (name, address, telephone/fax contact details):

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

8. Place of production: Hatchery Wild Collection Research Ornamental Other

9. If collected from the wild, the location of waters from which the stock was collected:

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

10. Date(s) of intended translocation to Victoria:

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

11. Purpose of translocation:

__________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________

The following sections should be completed and signed by the certifying veterinarian. Please use extra paper if required.

12. Details of diseases testing including any diseases tested for, dates/results of testing, number of animals sampled, test methods or OIE references). Pathology report(s) to be attached for reference

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

13. Details of site inspections including dates that you have conducted or are aware of.

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

14. Details of facility aquatic animal health status including health surveillance during the previous two or more years and history of disease or eradication in the area.

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

15. Details of any quarantine/treatment/disinfection undertaken before shipment.

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

16. Details of disease zoning issues (e.g. zoogeographic area such as the Murray-Darling system) if present.

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________________________

17. Health statement

To the best of my knowledge, I certify that the proposed consignment of fish is free of notifiable diseases (Livestock Disease Control Act 1994).

Name:______________________________________________________________________________

Signature:___________________________________________________________________________

Date:_______________________________________________________________________________

Company/ Organisation:________________________________________________________________

Address:____________________________________________________________________________

Telephone/ fax/ email:________________________________________________________________

Veterinary licence number:____________________________________________________________

Official stamp (if applicable):

Serial number of certificate (if applicable):_______________________________________________

Appendix I: Disinfection, containment and transport procedures

Disinfection is an important operational control to manage the risks associated with infectious disease. Routine or targeted disinfection can assist with the eradication or exclusion of specific diseases associated with aquaculture establishments.

General arrangements

11. Vehicles and equipment shall be thoroughlycleansed and disinfected before and afteruse according to the guidelines given in theAquatic Animal Code (OIE, 2006a).

12. Vehicles and/or containers in which aquatic animals are confined should be secured to maintain optimal conditions for the aquatic animals during transport and to allow easy access by the attendant.

Treatment of transportation water

13. The waste and rinsing water should not be emptied into a drainage system that is directly connected to an aquatic environment where aquatic animals are present.

14. The water from the tanks should be disinfected by a recognised process (OIE,2006a) and either discharged to mains sewer or sprayed over land that does not drain into waters containing aquatic animals.

Following are some of the processes applicable to disinfection in recirculating aquaculture systems (modified OIE, 2006a). Other disinfecting agents may be suitable and should be used according the instructions of the manufacturer.

Processes	Indications	Methods of Use	Comments
Physical Ultra-violet light	Viruses and bacteria	10 mJ/cm2	Minimum lethal dose
Ultra-violet light	Infectious pancreatic necrosis (IPN) andnodavirus (VNN/VER [viral nervousnecrosis/viral encephalopathy andretinopathy]) in water	125–200 mJ/cm2
Chemical Quartenary ammonia	Virus, bacteria, hands, plastic surfaces	0.1–1 g/litre for 1–15 minutes	IPN virus resistant
Calcium hypochlorite	Bacteria and viruses on all clean surfacesand in water	30 mg available chlorine/litre. Leave toinactivate for several days or neutralisewith sodium thiosulfate after 3 hours	Can be neutralisedwith sodiumthiosulfate.
Formalin	Fish pathogens in sealed premises	Released from formogenic substances,generally trioxymethylene. Comply withinstructions	Nodavirus resistant
Hydrogen peroxide	ISA virus	0.02–0.06 per cent
Iodine (iodophors)	Bacteria, viruses on nets, boots and clothing	200 mg iodine/litre for a few seconds
Iodine (iodophors)	Hands, smooth surfaces	>200 mg iodine/litre a few seconds
Ozone	Sterilisation of water, fish pathogens	0.2–1 mg/litre for 3 minutes	Equipment used toproduce ozone is costlyand ozone is verytoxic.
Sodium hypochlorite	Bacteria and viruses on all clean surfacesand in water	30 mg available chlorine/litre. Leave toinactivate for a few days or neutralisewith sodium thiosulfate after 3 hours.	Can be neutralisedwith sodiumthiosulfate.
	Nets, boots and clothing	200 mg to 1 g available chlorine/litre forseveral minutes. Leave to inactivate for afew days or neutralise with sodiumthiosulfate.

---

1 For the purposes of Appendix A, native refers to species found naturally within Victoria.

2 Significant mortality is stock losses (per culture unit) in excess of 1.0% per day.

3 To be DEPI-approved, a veterinarian must be qualified andexperienced in aquatic animal health management.

4 Records will include the number (and species) of stock held ineach culture vessel, stocking rates, mortalities, incidence ofsignificant stressors and other fish health observations.

5 Unfortunately, for most tests, sensitivity and specificity dataare not published, and the use of defaults (100% sensitivity and100% specificity) is recommended. This testing regime wouldnot rule out that the disease is present at a lower prevalence; iftesting for lower assumed prevalence is required, samplenumbers will go up. Likewise, if a higher level of confidence isrequired based on the pathological examination alone, thenmore samples would need to be taken