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Action to Stop Salmon Parasites in the Tay

A contingency plan to tackle the salmon parasite Gyrodactylus salaris (Gs) should it enter into Scotland’s rivers has been welcomed by MSP Murdo Fraser. 

Scotland so far remains free of Gs, but were it to be introduced, it is estimated that the parasite could devastate the country’s £60 million freshwater salmon industry.  The River Tay is world renowned for its freshwater salmon fishing and Murdo wants to see every precaution possible to be taken to prevent the parasite entering the River Tay eco-system.

Gyrodactylus salaris is a virulent freshwater parasite of Atlantic salmon not found in Scotland.  It was introduced into Norway with salmon smolts for farming and has severely impacted wild salmon stocks in 46 of their rivers.  Less than half a millimetre long, the parasite multiplies rapidly and it would only take one individual to start an epidemic. Simple precautions such as thoroughly drying or disinfecting fishing tackle are effective.

The contingency plan was announced on 14 April and sets out a range of measures to eradicate or contain Gs should it be introduced into Scotland.  It was produced with the support of the fishing industry and other stakeholders and includes a detailed operations manual to support all those dealing with any disease outbreak.  The plan can be viewed at www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/1062/0058772.pdf

Commenting, the MSP said: “Salmon fishing in Perthshire on the River Tay is world renowned and it is famous in particular for its big spring fish.  If this parasite was to get into the River Tay, it would cause millions of pounds worth of damage to the fishing industry in Perthshire and every measure must be taken to prevent the parasite entering our eco-system.

Immeasurable Damage Potential

“I welcome a contingency plan finally being put in place to deal with any potential parasite outbreak.  This is good news for Perthshire’s fishing industry on the River Tay.  A parasite outbreak in the River Tay would do immeasurable damage to the local fishing industry, which is why we must do everything possible to prevent or contain any outbreak." 

He continued: “The contingency plan makes sure that if any outbreak did take place then there is a range of measures that can be taken to act quickly to protect this important industry. It is important to keep the fishing industry involved with steps to stop any parasites getting into Scotland’s freshwater rivers as they are the experts.

“Scottish salmon is an iconic fish and attracts people from all across the globe to visit Perthshire and take part in one of the noblest and enjoyable sports.”