Koi herpesvirus found in Stourbridge vineyard fish pools

Koi herpesvirus disease has been detected in fish at Halfpenny Green Wine Estate in South Staffordshire.

Koi herpesvirus discovered in fishing pools at vineyard near Stourbridge

A viral fish disease known as Koi herpesvirus has been found in fishing pools at the Halfpenny Green Wine Estate near Stourbridge. The Fish Health Inspectorate reported that this disease affects all varieties of common and ornamental carp, leading to significant fish deaths.

Fish with KHV exhibit symptoms like necrotic patches on their gills, rough skin, and sunken eyes, particularly in water temperatures between 16 to 28°C. While there is no threat to human health, the public is encouraged to report any suspected outbreaks. In response to the findings, the FHI has imposed restrictions on moving live aquatic animals into or out of the vineyard and initiated a monitoring program to prevent the disease from spreading. This designation is a precaution to protect other aquatic life in the area.

The presence of Koi herpesvirus at a prominent vineyard raises concerns about fish health management in both commercial and recreational fishing. The measures enforced by the Fish Health Inspectorate serve as a crucial step to contain the outbreak and protect local ecosystems. With increasing instances of viral diseases affecting aquaculture, heightened awareness and monitoring are more important than ever. The incident emphasizes the need for effective biosecurity measures to safeguard aquatic biodiversity and the economic interests related to fish farming and fishing tourism.

Highlights

As monitoring continues, the impact on local fishing practices remains to be seen.