IMMUNIZATION OF FISHES IN WORLD MARICULTURE: A REVIEW

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe capability to mount an immune response against pathogens has been recognized in fish since rainbow trout (Salmo gairdneri) were successfully vaccinated against the bacterial disease furunculosis in 1942. Most investigations into the development of fish vaccines since that time have focused on the bacterial pathogens of salmonids.The majority of research and development of practical vaccines for cultured fish has been realized in the past 10 years and presently the field of fish immunology is enjoying a rapid and productive growth. Interest in fish from a phylogenetic or comparative aspect led many competent individuals and institutions to explore the nature and mechanisms of the immune response in several species. Knowledge gained from these investigations has been the foundation for work on practical vaccine development.During the early 1970′ in the Pacific Northwest, commercial growers hand vaccinated marine cultured Pacific salmon against vibriosis. Hundreds of thousands of juvenile salmon were individually injected using automatic syringes and assembly line techniques. With the advent of large‐scale aquaculture operations, the necessity for an efficacious delivery system for large numbers of fish became evident. Recently, new methods and novel techniques such as immersion and spray vaccination have been developed by private, academic, and governmental agencies.A review is given of the evolution of vaccines and vaccine delivery systems in cultured finfish.