REVIEW OF DISEASE-CONTROL IN AQUACULTURE IN THE REPUBLIC-OF-SOUTH-AFRICA

The disease control measures in respect of domestic and wildlife aquat ic species in the Republic of South Africa (RSA) are shared between tw o Directorates in the Department of Agriculture. The Directorate of An imal Health is responsible for disease control measures in respect of Salmonidae, Health the Directorate of Plant and Quality Control regula tes the introduction of exotic and unwanted aquatic species into the R SA. The activities and interests of commercial aquaculture are coordin ated through the South African Aquaculture Organization and a national coordinating committee under the control of the national Department o f Agriculture. Four diseases of trout are notifiable under the terms o f the Animal Diseases Act (Act 35 of 1984), namely viral haemorrhagic septicaemia, infectious pancreatic necrosis, infectious haematopoietic necrosis and bacterial kidney disease. The zoosanitary measures in re spect of these diseases require State intervention after detection of occurrence. Sampling procedures for the diagnosis of diseases, mainten ance of the disease-free status of trout farms accredited for export p urposes and requirements for the import of ova are based on the standa rds recommended in the International Aquatic Animal Health Code of the Office International des Epizooties. Zoosanitary control of other aqu atic species not related to aquaculture especially ornamental fish - m ay be unnecessary. an embargo, through existing legislation on the imp ortation of unwanted species, has been the only means of protecting in land species. The author concludes by evaluating the need for, and the feasibility of, additional legislation for the zoosanitary control of other aquatic species.