Ardtoe's new guide to the use of cleaner fish in aquaculture

Fish farmers acknowledge the economic significance of sea lice control. Although various organic solutions to control sea lice have been examined the use of cleaner fish remains the only biological form of control that has been shown to be effective in many situations. It is also recognised that cleaner fish are an important part of an integrated management plan for sea lice using fallowing and other preventive measures and area management agreements. Although cleaner fish have been used since the early 1990s there have been recent advances in their application, and there are also other potential applications other than in salmon culture. A recent review by Ardtoe Marine Laboratory (published in November 2005 by CAB International) describes the development of the technique, gives examples of the application of cleaner fish, discusses methods to improve efficiency of the technique, and explores further potential applications in ectoparasite control. The review by Jim Treasurer can be found in the Veterinary Bulletin 75 (10), 17-29.