Foreword

Fish health, both of farmed and wild productions, is requesting continuous upgrading not only to avoid significant losses but also to facilitate seafood security and safety. The work in this field is complex, as many different factors need to be considered in relation. Preventive fish health work has to be based on knowledge, not limited to the fish, but relating to all aspects of the conditions under which the fish exist, is traded and processed. Although important literature has been accumulated on this area, there is undoubtedly a need to have contemporary and practical knowledge in this respect summarized in one volume.

This difficult work was undertaken by well-known professors from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of Lisbon, authorities on the covered subjects. In this practical, but very comprehensive book, the authors envelop three sections encompassing the general biology, sensible concepts on fish health and useful notions on fish production. The first section includes a brief review on particular features of fish anatomy and physiology as well as the embryonic and larval development. The second section comprises of three chapters devoted to aquaculture and diagnosis practices, infectious and parasitic diseases of fish, and anesthesia and surgery in fish. The last section contains relevant information on the fishery production, catch, trade and processing and the official veterinary inspection practices.

The combined issues offered in this book, well written and well arranged, confirming thus the authors´ rich experience, make this publication an excellent modern key work. Certainly it will have a great impact on the enhancement of fish health and production, allowing also a better understanding of fish health implications on the aquatic systems and furthermore contributing for seafood processing, security, quality and safety. This volume will be undoubtedly appreciated as an important source of information for scientists, university students, authorities, fish farmers, fishermen and fish processors.

The book as a whole is of a high standard, and I am convinced that the readers will find it very valuable for their professional and research activities and a significant contribution for understanding the fascinating complexity of the fauna of our planet. Both the authors and the editor are to be congratulated on this publication.