Two fish parasites removed from 'harmful' list

Groups stocking fish in the UK could benefit from a ruling which has removed two parasites from a list deemed to be harmful to fish stocks.

A panel of scientists from various institutions, including the Environment Agency, concluded that the two parasites, Atractolytocestus huronensis and Paraergasilus longidigitus, do not pose a significant threat to fish stocks.

The two parasites, which first appeared in the 1990s, affect the gut of common carp and the nasal cavities of coarse and salmonid species.

Fish health consultant Ian Welby commended the decision and said he was "pleased that it has now been shown that neither parasite is a major threat to fisheries".

Paul Lidgett, policy advisor at the Environment Agency, estimated that the value of fish which could now be stocked amounted to £500,000.

"Not only is the decision good for fish suppliers, it also allows the Environment Agency to focus on the more significant threats," he added.

New and emerging fish parasites, such as the Koi Herpesvirus, are believed to be far worse of a threat to fish stocks.