Shipping Practices In The Ornamental Fish Industry

The isolation of Hawaii presents transport challenges to growers of tropical fish. Transport must be by air, and travel time rages from 48 to 72 hours; the fish are confined within plastic bags of water charged with oxygen. During transport, the water may become oxygen-depleted, carbon dioxide may accumulate, and pH and ammonia levels may rise, any of which can be damaging of fatal to fish. This manual provides guidelines for growers on choosing an airline carrier, selecting shipping bags and boxes, and determining how densely to pack fish, by species. Packing procedures and shipping additives are discussed, and instructions on receiving fish are provided.