Aquatic Animal Diseases

Aquatic animal diseases have the potential to seriously impact aquatic animal health, international trade, and the economy. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is responsible for preventing the introduction of or spread of aquatic animal diseases of finfish, molluscs and crustaceans.

Animal diseases are categorized as:

  • Reportable diseases

    These diseases are of significant importance to aquatic animal health or to the Canadian economy. Anyone who owns or works with aquatic animals and knows of or suspects a reportable disease is required by law to notify the CFIA.
  • Immediately notifiable diseases

    These diseases do not exist in Canada. If an immediately notifiable disease were to be detected, the CFIA would begin an investigation. Only laboratories are required to contact the CFIA regarding the suspicion or diagnosis of these diseases.
  • Annually notifiable diseases

    These diseases are present in Canada and are a concern to some of Canada’s trading partners. Only laboratories are required to contact the CFIA regarding the suspicion or diagnosis of these diseases.

Additional information