Aquatic biosecurity

Caulerpa (Caulerpa taxifolia), a Class 1 noxious seaweed species.
Photo: Alan Millar, Royal Botanic Gardens, Sydney

Aquatic biosecurity is all about protecting the economy, human health and the environment from problems associated with aquatic pests, diseases and saltwater weeds.

Introduced pests and diseases pose environmental, social and economic threats by damaging the natural balance of aquatic flora and fauna.

The role of fishers, fish farmers and keepers of ornamental fish

Recreational and commercial fishers, fish farmers and ornamental fish enthusiasts all have a vital role to play in aquatic biosecurity.

Recreational and commercial fishers may be the first to spot a disease, a fish kill or a new pest species.

Fish farmers should always be on the look-out for biosecurity problems that can affect their business, their industry, as well as natural habitats.

Ornamental fish

Common carp (Cyprinus carpio), large freshwater fish native to central Asia, are thought to have contributed to the degradation of aquatic ecosystems in south-eastern Australia.
Photo: Gunther Schmida

Redfin perch (Perca fluviatilis), medium-sized freshwater fish native to northern Europe, are now widely spread across southern Australia. They can devastate native fish populations.
Photo: Gunther Schmida

Ornamental fish enthusiasts need to be scrupulous in managing the health of their fish, and preventing any diseases or potential pest species from spreading to other collections or even into the wild. If for any reason you cant look after your fish tank any longer, please don't dump that fish! Released ornamentals can establish as pests and have major impacts on our native species.

The role of NSW DPI

NSW DPI's Aquatic Biosecurity Unit works closely with industry, other agencies and the community to manage all types of aquatic biosecurity risks.

Reporting fish kills

To report a fish kill in wild fish or shellfish, phone either:

24 hour hotline 1800 043 536
your local/regional NSW DPI Fisheries office, and ask to speak to a Fisheries Officer.

Reporting aquatic diseases

To report a suspected aquatic disease event or unexplained mortality in cultured fish or shellfish (including oyster mortalities), phone either:

24 hour hotline 1800 043 536
your local/regional NSW DPI Fisheries office, and ask to speak to a Fisheries Officer.
Manager Aquatic Biosecurity & Risk Management (02) 4982 1232

and guidance will be given in submission of samples to the laboratory, including completion of the:

Oyster mortality report form 96.7 kb
Veterinary laboratory specimen advice form 107.9 kb

More information

For more detailed information about saltwater weeds and aquatic pests and diseases of fish and shellfish, see NSW DPI's Aquatic pests and diseases page.

For more information relating to the procedures for reporting both aquatic pests and diseases, including fish-kills, see NSW DPIs Reporting Aquatic Pests and Diseases.