Conclusions

Abstract

It should be abundantly clear that comparatively few aspects of the biology of bacterial fish pathogens have been studied in detail. In particular, it has been fashionable to describe the pathogenicity mechanisms and control measures (by vaccines, non-specific immunostimulants and probiotics). However, even these areas are incomplete. The outlook for the future is nevertheless encouraging, and it seems likely that there will be increasing interest in the study of fish diseases. To some extent, this will be justified by the continued expansion of aquaculture and the expected increase in outbreaks of disease. It seems likely that future developments will encompass the following.