Biosecurity

Biosecurity can be defined as ‘the measures and methods adopted to secure a disease free environment in all phases of aquaculture practices (i.e, hatcheries, nurseries, growout farms) for improved profitability’. Biosecurity protocols are intended to maintain the “security” of a facility (i.e., prevent entry of, or reduce overall numbers prior to entry) with respect to certain disease-causing organisms (parasites, bacteria, viruses and fungi) that may not be present in a particular system.

In short, food producers have consumer safety as their primary target. If the food they produce is not safe, no economic model works. The second and equally important target is economic prosperity. Part of this process is biosecurity. It touches all the bases: environmental integrity, animal welfare, food safety and economic gain.

In aquaculture, critical control points are areas in the production process that may present or permit biological hazards. Spotting these areas often requires a little foresight and common sense. One of the challenges faced by aquaculturists is to offer all the life stages of their animal’s proper sanitary conditions and Biosecurity. A comprehensive biosecurity programmer should be in place. This is essential in combating and preventing disease.