Abstract:

Diseases are a major constraint to the sustainable development of Asian aquaculture. Many diseases affecting present-day aquaculture result from intensification of culture practices without a basic perception of the intricate balance between host, pathogen and environment. Often, diseases outbreaks are closely linked to environmental deterioration and stress associated with intensification of culture practices. Stress factors such as inadequate physio-chemical and microbiological quality of culture water, inferior nutritional status and high stocking densities can cause infection by opportunistic pathogens, leading to mortality. Unprecedented movement of aquaculture seed and broodstock between regions and localities has created fish and shrimp populations with inherent pathogens, making these populations more prone to serious diseases when they are under stress. Indiscriminate use of chemicals, including antibiotics, may cuase serioius environmental ploblems. Outbreaks of diseases, caused by virulent primary pathogens, can be minimized through careful quarantine, prophylaxis, and therapy. However, the much emphasized practice of  “good on-farm management” will become costly and ineffective if basic culture requirements such as appropriate site selection, farm design, quality of incoming water, nutritional status of feed, and quality of seed are not guaranteed. The present paper attempts to discuss the challenges that we have to face in formulating strategic aquatic health management programs for the sustainable development of Asian aquaculture.

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Date 1998/12/01

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