Epizootic ulcerative syndrome (EUS) is a seasonal epizootic condition of wild and farmed, fresh and brackishwater fish. Of complex infectious aetiology, it is characterised by the presence of invasive Aphanomyces infection and necrotising ulcerative lesions typically producing a granulomatous response. The disease is now endemic in South-east and south Asia, and has recently extended to West Asia. EUS is indistinguishable from red spot disease of eastern Australia and mycotic granulomatosis of Japan.

Koi herpes virus (KHV) outbreaks in the region have significant trade implications for the high value ornamental koi carp industry, and the important food fish common carp. Active trade in ornamental fish poses a potential risk for spread of KHV. Recognising the significance, "infection with koi herpesvirus" has been listed under "diseases prevalent in the region" in the NACA/FAO/OIE regional quarterly aquatic animal disease (QAAD) list, effective for reporting from first quarter of 2004.

This information sheet on slow growth syndrome in Penaeus monodon provides some background information on the possible aetiology and a working case definition. This will be useful for surveillance and epidemiological purposes to collate more information about this syndrome in the region.

This report, the 25th in the series, contains information about the aquatic animal health status of fifteen states in the Asia-Pacific region. The foreword discusses the outcomes of the third meeting of the Asia Regional Advisory Group on Aquatic Animal Health.

In this issue:

Genetic considerations in fisheries and aquaculture with regards to biodiversity. Rice-fish culture for food and environmental security. Land-based aquaculture of spotted babylon Babylonia areolata in Thailand: Hatchery-based seedling operation. Shrimp health question and answer. Women in coastal aquaculture. Insights into live marine food fish markets in Asia. Farming practices, market chains and prices of marine finfish in Malaysia, Indonesia and Hong Kong.

These are the proceedings of a workshop, funded by the APEC Fisheries Working Group Project 02/2000. The project developed a framework with nine major research components: Health and production at hatcheries, regional collaborative disease resource centers, regional disease monitoring and surveillance, improving regional diagnostic capabilities, responsible trans-boundary movement, farm health management, vaccines and vaccination, funding mechanisms and establishment of an ad-hoc working group.

This report, the 24th in the series, contains information about the aquatic animal health status of seventeen states in the Asia-Pacific region. The foreword discusses capacity building to prevent, prepare for an respond to aquatic animal health emergencies.

This document provides an overview of topical issues in Asian aquaculture for 2003, including a review of its status, progress in research and development, major issues and experiences, together with suggestions on actions for addressing opportunities and constraints. The document was prepared by NACA and FAO to facilitate discussions at the 15th NACA Governing Council meeting, hosted by the Government of Sri Lanka on 21st-25th April 2004.

In this issue:

Genetic impacts of translocation on aquatic biodiversity in Asia. Carp culture in Iran. Opportunities and challenges in Myanmar aquaculture. Impacts of monosex Macrobrachium culture on seed availability in India. Use of new technology and skills for eco-friendly production of tiger shrimp Penaeus monodon. Larval rearing and spat production of the windowpane shell Placuna placenta. HACCP in shrimp farming. First breeding success of Napoleon wrasse Cheilinus undulatus and coral trout Plectropomus leopardus.

The recommendations are derived from discussions at the consultation and three expert working groups and were adopted during the final plenary session of the Expert Consultation. Together they represent a powerful set of recommendations in use of rapid diagnostic tools for better health management in shrimp aquaculture. They have been put together in this summary document for rapid dissemination to potential users, researchers and other interested parties, in India and elsewhere.