California aquaculture is a growing industry best characterized by its diversity of production systems, cultured species, and final products. The industry comprises four major sectors (i.e., finfish, shellfish, macroalgae, and natural resource agency), which raise aquatic organisms for a variety of purposes, such as sustenance, conservation, recreation, and scientific research. Commercial aquaculture in California primarily comprises finfish and shellfish for human consumption; however, commercial producers also raise sportfish for recreational fishing, and niche seafood products like caviar. Natural resource agencies, such as the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW), are also significant aquaculture producers that raise various species of salmonids for conservation.
Regardless of the production purpose, all aquaculture producers must actively work towards maintaining the health and welfare of animals in their care. The diversity within California’s aquaculture industry requires an equally diverse set of disease management strategies that address needs of each sector while maintaining adequate animal welfare. A recent survey on aquatic animal health indicates that California finfish and shellfish facility managers are aware of disease challenges and use a preventative approach to reduce the likelihood of disease outbreaks. Disease prevention strategies such as biosecurity protocols are important for maintaining animal health and welfare within the facility. Biosecurity and disease-response protocols are also important components of disease management, and their standardization across each aquaculture industry sector will enhance the disease prevention capabilities of the industry. Our survey results suggest that when disease is detected, non-prescription antimicrobial products (i.e., hydrogen peroxide) are used most frequently for disease treatment (71% commercial, 17% commercial shellfish, 86% CDFW), while prescription antibiotics are only utilized following veterinary review and approval (18% commercial finfish, 0% commercial shellfish, 71% CDFW). Overall, a comprehensive disease management plan is essential for improving animal health and for meeting the high standards of welfare that the aquaculture industry strives to maintain.