Lucknow recently hosted the three-day international conference on Aquatic Animal Epidemiology (AquaEpi III), organized by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), New Delhi, in collaboration with the International Society of Aquatic Animal Epidemiology (ISAAE).
Taking place at ICAR National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources from November 29 to December 1, the event drew the participation of approximately 210 delegates, including representatives from ten countries.
The conference featured eight technical sessions and dedicated poster sessions, facilitating in-depth discussions on various aspects of finfish and shellfish diseases’ epidemiology. Key topics included disease surveillance and reporting, the intersection of one health and aquaculture, biosecurity in aquaculture, and the social and economic impacts of aquatic animal diseases.
One of the central themes of the deliberations was the urgent need for more epidemiologists specializing in aquatic animal health. The discussions also highlighted the crucial role of farmers as significant stakeholders in managing aquatic animal health.
The valedictory program, held on Friday, featured Chief Guest Dr. PK Sahoo, Director of ICAR-CIFA, Bhubaneshwar, emphasizing the importance of understanding disease processes for effective epidemiology comprehension.
Guests of honor, including Dr. Jitendra Kumar from ICAR, New Delhi, and international experts Dr. Flavio Corsin, Dr. Fernando O Mardones, Dr. Saraya Tavornpanich, and Dr. Chris Hauton, underscored the significance of the conference’s recommendations.
Dr. UK Sarkar, Director of ICAR-NBFGR, commended the participants for their valuable contributions to the conference.
