If broodstock of a production species is introduced into an aquaculture system, they should be:

Introducing broodstock into an aquaculture system is a critical step that carries the risk of transferring diseases, parasites, or unwanted genetic traits into the production environment. Therefore, quarantining the broodstock prior to their introduction is essential for several reasons.

Quarantine allows for the observation of the broodstock in a controlled setting, where their health status can be assessed without endangering the existing population. This period is crucial for detecting and managing any signs of illness or parasites that may not be immediately visible. Additionally, during this time, the broodstock can be medicated as necessary to prevent the introduction of pathogens into the main system. This preventive measure is vital for maintaining the health and productivity of the entire aquaculture operation.

While tagging for identification can be helpful for tracking purposes, it does not address health concerns. Similarly, washing broodstock in well water does not effectively mitigate the risk of disease transmission and may even introduce new contaminants. Feeding live food could be beneficial for acclimatizing the broodstock but does not provide health protection. Therefore, quarantining and medicating as necessary stands out as the most comprehensive and responsible approach when introducing new broodstock into an aquaculture system.