Scientific Support for Health Management and Biosecurity for Marine Aquaculture in the United States

This document contains an overview of the available science for health management and biosecurity throughout the marine aquaculture industry for finfish, invertebrates (e.g., bivalves), and seaweed/algae (e.g., kelp). It describes factors for aquaculture diseases, discusses anticipated effects of climate change on aquaculture diseases, and identifies federal agencies with responsibilities for aquatic organism health. At this time, NOAA Fisheries is conducting assessments to identify areas suitable for commercial marine aquaculture in the Gulf of Mexico and the Southern California Bight, known as Aquaculture Opportunity Areas (AOAs). Information relevant to these regions is included throughout this document, such as important wild organisms that may occur in the AOAs, and regionspecific climate change issues.