The use of alien species is a proven means to increase production and value from aquatic ecosystems. However, alien species are now recognised as one of the most significant threats to aquatic biodiversity. There are a range of international mechanisms that have been established to assist countries in meeting international obligations and responsibilities. Implementation is often difficult due to lack of awareness and problems with enforcement. Regional coordination of policies is needed for effective national management.

This report, the 34th in the series, contains information about the aquatic animal health status of fourteen states in the Asia-Pacific region. The foreword discusses efforts towards international harmonisation in aquatic animal health standards.

This report, the 33rd in the series, contains information about the aquatic animal health status of seventeen states in the Asia-Pacific region. The foreword discusses emerging diseases in the region.

This report examines the role mariculture could play in reducing poverty and providing alternative livelihood opportunities for people living in coastal areas. This includes a review of the current status of coastal poverty, coastal livelihoods and vulnerabilities within the Asia-Pacific region and the experiences and examples of sustainable economic development through mariculture. This review then identifies key follow-up actions and recommends strategies for future pro-poor mariculture development.

This is the proceedings of the workshop on Building capacity to combat impacts of aquatic invasive alien species and associated trans-boundary pathogens in ASEAN countries, held in Penang, Malaysia, on the 12th-16th July 2004. The workshop built on the recommendations from a 2002 workshop organised by the Global Invasive Species Program and a 2003 workshop of countries sharing the Mekong watershed, in promoting awareness, coordination mechanisms and information exchange systems and identifying management and risk mitigation measures.