Indicator 4.1.1.18

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System

Water Type

Feed Dependent

Species

Indicator 4.1.1.18

by Contact on 8 October 2026

Requirement

The UoC shall carry out a risk assessment prior to stocking cleaner fish, considering at least the following: a) the suitability of use of cleaner fish for parasite control (see Indicator 4.5.17); and b) the disease history of the cleaner fish to avoid cross contamination (only where using farmed cleaner fish); and c) site-specific environmental conditions considering the species-specific needs of cleaner fish; and d) net mesh size; and e) salmon size in relation to cleaner fish.

How Do I Interpret This Requirement?

  • A risk assessment regarding the use of cleaner fish should be developed.

  • As part of the risk assessment the site should, along with the designated veterinarian or aquatic animal health professional, review previous information:

    • Parasite infection history at the site.

    • Disease history at the site.

    • Disease history of available farmed cleaner fish.

    • Water quality history at the site.

    • Site specific environmental conditions.

    • Net mesh size.

    • Salmon size.

Evidence of Implementation

  • A completed risk assessment

    • This is to be reviewed at the start of each cycle.

    • Developed in accordance with the designated veterinarian or aquatic animal health professional.

Auditors Should Confirm

  • That at the start of each cycle, a risk assessment is carried out to ensure that cleaner fish are a viable option for the site.

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