GS
What is the GS (Gyrodactylus Salaris) Parasite ?
The Gs (Gyrodactylus Salaris) parasite is a highly contagious bug that has devestated fresh water salmon stocks in a number of countries. In Norway for example, salmon stocks in 20 rivers have been virtually wiped out.
Less then half a millimetre long, the Gs parasite multiplies very rapidly, and it only takes one to start an epidemic.
The Gs parasite is not currently in the UK. Please help protect our migratory species by taking note of and following the prevention steps outlined below.
What Countries are Affected ?
Currently Denmark, Finland, Germany, Italy, Norway, Portugal, Russia, Spain and Sweden.
Where does the Gs Parasite Come From ?
Gs occurs naturally in the Baltic rivers of Sweden, Finland and Russia. The fish there are tolerant of the parasite, but fish in Norway and the UK are unused to the parasite and have little or no tolerance to it. The parasite was transferred with farmed fish from Sweden to Norway where it spread to wild salmon stocks. The Gs parasite can also survive on other fish species such as the eel.
How Could It Get Here?
The Gs parasite is capable of surviving for several days in damp and/or wet conditions (such as on waders, fishing equipment, bags). Therefore it could be accidentally introduced by anyone (fishermen/women or other water sports entusiasts) who may visit rivers in the affected countries and then may use the same equipment in Scotland.
What Do I Need To Do ?
The Gs parasite needs a wet environment to survive. If you are travelling to and from affected countries make sure any water sports equipment is completely dry before use in Scotland. To ensure your equipment is not contaminated please take one of the following precautionary measures:
* Dry equipment at a minimum of 20 degrees Celsius for at least 2 days.
* Heat for at least 1 hour at temperatures of above 60 degrees Celsius.
* Deep freeze for at least 1 day.
Further Information
Leaflets are available from Purdies Fishing Tackle and Outdoor Clothing Shop and also from the following web site:
www.infoscotland.com/gsbug
