Help Reduce the Translocation Risk
What can I do?
Amateur aquarists:
Please do not release unwanted aquarium fish, pond fish or plants into natural waterways. This will help prevent the potential introduction of disease and non-endemic species that may become established as pests.
The problem of non-endemic fish species and aquatic plants becoming pests across the world has occurred partly as a result of aquarium species being released into the environment. Note that there are simple ethical ways of disposing of unwanted fish or plants.
People interested in protecting WA's waters and their inhabitants:
If you see a fish or aquatic plant that you suspect has been introduced into WA's aquatic environment from another state or from outside Australia, please report the sighting to WA's FISHWATCH service on 1800-815-507. For more information see our sections on Introduced Freshwater Species or Introduced Marine Aquatic Invaders.
Recreational fishers:
Avoid using imported food intended for human consumption as bait such as prawns. While this food may be safe for humans to eat, it could still carry disease that could have devastating effects if released into the environment.
Always try to use bait from locally supplied sources. Bait originating from other countries or other Australian states may contain disease that does not occur in WA.
You may reduce the risk of introducing disease into WA's aquatic environment by cooking before using any bait that is not sourced locally . Additionally, please avoid releasing any unused bait into waters within the State.
By taking the above precautions, you can reduce the risk of introducing diseases such as White Spot Syndrome Virus and perkinsus and other diseases that do not currently occur in Western Australia.
For more information see our FAQ on the White Spot Syndrome Virus and perkinsus.
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