| Thank you for further clarification of your perspective on the ground in Australia. I agree with much of that.
What makes a responsible koi-keeper in Australia might be similar to how the term could be defined in the U.S. Likewise, there is likely similarities in how regulators in both of our countries look at invasive carp species and the koi-hobby. I don’t believe there is an established and popularly promoted set of best management practices for koi-keepers in the U.S. as relate to the issues that most concern government regulators. Is there in Australia? Thus, from my perspective on this side of the ditch it seems realistic to consider the potential that where KHV might be utilized as a viable option in Australia the perceived benefits of such could spread like the virus itself and be adopted by regulators in other countries including the U.S.
It is my contention that there needs to be established best management practices within the koi-keeping community to include issues that effect aquaculture more broadly such as wastewater management (not discharging unwanted spawn production and fry directly into storm drains that lead to waterways via water changes adding to the threat that koi be considered nuisance species, etc.), potable water consumption conservation, etc. Likewise, I believe the potentially effected parties in the hobby whether professional or amatuer need to consider and address such matters to protect their interests.
Regards,
John
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