Potential Problems in the Registration of Sea Lamprey (Petromyzon marinus) Control Agents

Abstract

It is highly probable that increased data will be required in future applications for registration of control agents to support claims of efficacy, environmental safety, and human safety for control of the sea lamprey, Petromyzon marinus. Alternative techniques, such as biological or physical control methods, are also encompassed by regulatory control. Pheromones, hormones, attractants, and repellents are subject to the same stringent regulations applied to purely chemical methods. Guidelines for registering live biological control agents are under review and revision, but currently such agents are regulated under the same requirements as chemicals. The irreversible act of releasing living control organisms, such as predators, parasites, or pathogens, and their possible detrimental effects on nontarget species, will require significant proof that they will not harm the ecosystem. Biologics, such as serums, vaccines, or antigens, also require registration, but the process is less complicated and requires less time for completion. Regulation of physical control devices occurs only if the method or device is offered for sale with claims as to its efficacy.Key words: sea lamprey, sea lamprey control, Petromyzon marinus, lampricides, chemical registration, chemical control, biological control, physical control