What is it?
Gyrodactylys salaris is a serious fish disease that affects a number of freshwater fish - predominantly the salar family - i.e. trout, salmon, etc. Although this disease is not present in the UK (yet?) it is a very real threat, and yet some simple steps can help to ensure that our beautiful rivers do not get infected with this killer. The disease is nearly un-noticeable to the naked eye. There are a number of sites containing information on this disease which can be found from the links below.
What does it mean for me?
If you are visiting the Thurso, and have recently visited a salmon river outwith the UK then your fishing equipment may well be contaminated. We need to ensure that your equipment is sterilised correctly to ensure no contamination in the UK. Further information can be obtained from the links shown below. (Note: these links will open in another window)
Useful Links
Environment Agency Link
DEFRA Leaflet
Wikipedia Information