“Biosecurity in aquaculture: a practical approach for on-farm implementation (7328)”

Biosecurity in aquaculture: a practical approach for on-farm implementation

Introduction

Aquaculture continues to expand as a major source of global animal protein. However, its growth is constrained by the persistent threat of infectious diseases. Effective biosecurity measures remain key for disease prevention yet their implementation at the farm level is often inconsistent due to gaps in risk assessment, infrastructure, and practical guidance.

Methodology

We present a structured, eight-step framework for the development and implementation of On-Farm Biosecurity Plans (OFBPs), grounded in international standards (WOAH, FAO) and adapted for practical use across diverse aquaculture systems. The steps include: stakeholder engagement, production flow mapping, hazard identification and characterization, risk-based assessment, validation and monitoring, corrective actions, training and communication, and documentation. Using qualitative risk matrices and field-derived examples from marine fish, shrimp, tilapia, and salmon farming, the framework identifies critical control points and provides tools for prioritizing interventions.

Results

The application of the framework highlighted critical control points determining the pathogen introduction and spread into and within farms such as stock movement, water sourcing, equipment use and personnel access. Additional transmission vectors including live feeds, transport vehicles, birds, and rodents, are also addressed. Validation of biosecurity effectiveness can be achieved through health monitoring, biosecurity audits and performance indicators. The integration of biosecurity measures with farm-level disease surveillance and the implementation of SOPs (Standard Operating Procedures) and records can enhance compliance and traceability.

Conclusions

By framing biosecurity as a proactive investment rather than a reactive cost, this practical, research-informed model supports adoption in both resource-rich and resource-limited settings. It provides aquaculture professionals, including farmers, aquatic health specialists, researchers, and policymakers, with a comprehensive tool for enhancing disease resilience and strengthening aquatic animal health systems across the sector.

1. Picon-Camacho, Sara M., Vet’eau – Selarl du Dr Alain Le Breton, Presenter
2. Tavornpanich, Saraya, Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Author
3. Brun, Edgar, Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Author
4. Serrano De La Cruz, Maria F., Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Author
5. Zornu, Jacob, Norwegian Veterinary Institute, Author
6. Le Breton, Alain, Vet’eau – Selarl du Dr Alain Le Breton, Author
7. Le Breton, Lena, Vet’eau – Selarl du Dr Alain Le Breton, 1289 Rue des Pyrénées, 31330 Grenade Sur Garonne, France, Author