A Comprehensive Scenario on Application of Aqua Drugs and Chemicals for the Fish Health Management in Fish Hatcheries and Farms of South-Eastern Part, Bangladesh

Aims: The study was carried out to understand the current status of used drugs and chemicals in fish hatcheries and farms in Feni district, Bangladesh.

Methodology: Data were collected by pre-defined questionnaire interview, personal contact with farm and hatchery owners, and representatives of pharmaceutical companies by market survey.

Results: Twelve different groups of chemicals were being used for disease treatment and fish health management. Traditionally used chemicals were Lime, Salt, Potash (KMnO4) and Melathion. Although Malachite green hazardous to human health, it was widely used in hatcheries. Geotox, JV Zeolite, Amoxy fish, Megavit Aqua, Square aqua premix, Orgavit, Pure Oxy, Vitamin gel, O2-Marine etc. were widely used new chemicals. Renamycin was the most widely (36% farmer) used antibiotic followed by Oxysentin 20%, Orgamycin15% and Otetra vet power 50.

Conclusion: Nearly all farmers did not apply chemicals and drugs at proper doses because they thought the higher the doses applied the more and rapid will be the action. It was found that manufacturers and retailers of the products often neglected to provide farmers with necessary information regarding active ingredients and relevant instructions for safe and efficient use of aqua-drugs and chemicals. Recommended use of chemicals apparently brings good result but indiscriminate use of chemicals can be extremely detrimental to fish and our environment as well as to us and therefore, all of us should be aware of the proper use of chemicals.