In this course learners will get a basic understanding of Fish Health Management and Aquatic Diseases.
The water environment is much richer in nutrients than for example the air. This means that a lot of different potential (opportunistic) pathogens are present in the aquatic environment. This constant pressure of pathogens renders the presence of an effective immune system pivotal for the survival of the fish. There are some weak points in the defense system of fish: for example, the large surface of the gills, their delicate structure and the direct contact with surrounding water makes them a preferred target for invading pathogens.
Fish Diseases is a very specialized and technical field and Fish Health Specialist study for several years to qualify themselves in this field. The idea is not for learners to become a Fish Health Specialist but rather to get a basic understanding of this field, understand the terminology and some of the basic concepts.