Aquatic animal diseases have the potential to seriously impact aquatic animal health, the Canadian economy and international trade. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is responsible for preventing the introduction or spread of aquatic animal diseases of finfish, molluscs and crustaceans.
Animal diseases are categorized as:
- Reportable diseases
These diseases are of significant importance to aquatic animal health or to the Canadian economy. These diseases either occur regionally in Canada or do not occur in Canada. Anyone who owns or works with aquatic animals, including veterinarians and analysts, and knows of or suspects a reportable disease is required to notify the CFIA. - Immediately notifiable diseases
These diseases are of significant importance to aquatic animal health or to the Canadian economy. Most of these diseases do not occur in Canada and are most likely to be detected by a laboratory. Only laboratories are required to contact the CFIA regarding the suspicion or diagnosis of these diseases. - Annually notifiable diseases
These diseases are present in Canada and are a concern to some of Canada's trading partners. Only laboratories are required to contact the CFIA regarding the suspicion or diagnosis of these diseases.
Additional information
- Aquatic animal disease investigations
- Change to federal management of aquatic disease in Canada
- Declarations of reportable disease status
- Reminder: Aquatic Animal Health Requirements
- Industry guidance
- Surveillance
- Susceptible species for domestic movement permits
- Susceptible species of aquatic animals for importation