Draft Assessment of import risk of Garra rufa
For Department of Environment
25/5/2014
Table of Contents
Summary ..................................................................................................................................................4
1. Taxonomy.............................................................................................................................................5
2. Conservation Status .............................................................................................................................5
3. Ecology .................................................................................................................................................6
3.1 Description .................................................................................................................................... 6
3.2 Size and weight range.....................................................................................................................7
3.3 Lifespan...........................................................................................................................................7
3.4 Habitat ............................................................................................................................................7
3.5 Geographic range ...........................................................................................................................8
3.6 Diet .................................................................................................................................................9
3.7 Social groupings ..............................................................................................................................9
3.8 Aggressive behaviour .....................................................................................................................9
3.9 Natural predators ...........................................................................................................................9
3.10 Risk to humans .......................................................................................................................... 10
4. Reproductive Biology........................................................................................................................ 10
4.1 Reproductive biology: characteristics, parental care and age at maturity ................................ 10
4.2 Spawning behaviour: timing, habitat requirements, frequency ............................................... 11
4.3 Fecundity: Number of eggs ........................................................................................................ 11
4.4 Hybridization .............................................................................................................................. 11
5. Feral Populations .............................................................................................................................. 12
6. Completed Risk Assessments ........................................................................................................... 13
6.1 Australia ..................................................................................................................................... 13
6.2 Canada ....................................................................................................................................... 13
6.3 New Zealand .............................................................................................................................. 14
7. Likelihood of establishment in Australia ......................................................................................... 14
7.1 Tolerance to environmental conditions ..................................................................................... 14
7.2 Ability to find food ...................................................................................................................... 15
7.3 Susceptibility to predation ......................................................................................................... 15
7.4 Life history characteristics ......................................................................................................... 16
2
7.5 Characteristics that favour establishment ................................................................................. 16
8. Potential impacts of establishment ................................................................................................ 16
8.1 Effects on native fauna .............................................................................................................. 17
8.2 Effects on prey/food sources...................................................................................................... 17
8.3 Effects on habitats/ local environments .................................................................................... 17
8.4 Effects on primary industries/ property .................................................................................... 18
8.5 Effects on humans ...................................................................................................................... 18
8.3 Introduction of bacteria, parasites or disease ........................................................................... 18
9. Recommended Import Conditions ................................................................................................... 19
9.1 Conditions on the animals ......................................................................................................... 19
9.2 Conditions on the importer ....................................................................................................... 19
10. Purpose of Garra rufa ..................................................................................................................... 20
10.1 Aquarium Use ............................................................................................................................ 20
10.2 Medicinal Use ............................................................................................................................ 21
10.3 Aesthetic Use ............................................................................................................................. 21
10.4 Health risks of Aesthetic/Medical Use ...................................................................................... 22
11. Guidelines for keeping Garra rufa ................................................................................................. 22
11.1 Transport ................................................................................................................................... 23
11.2 Housing and care ....................................................................................................................... 23
11.3 Unwanted specimens ................................................................................................................ 23
12. Australian Laws ............................................................................................................................... 24
References ............................................................................................................................................ 25
Appendixes (electronic files attached) .....................................................................................................
1. Conditions for the Importation of Live Ornamental Finfish to Australia .........................................
2. Pet Industry Association of Australia National Code of Practice ......................................................
3. Guidance on the Management of Public Health Risks from Fish Pedicures .....................................
3
Summary
Freshwater habitats and biodiversity are especially vulnerable to human activities and
environmental change (Dudgeon et al. 2006). The deliberate or unintentional release of
non-native species has negatively affected Australian freshwater biodiversity (Humphries
and Walker 2013, {Arthington, 1997 #95)}. It is of upmost importance that the potential risk
and reward of any species be evaluated before allowing that species to be imported into
Australia.
Invasive fishes face many challenges in a new environment. Environmental tolerances,
predation, nutrition, reproduction, dispersal and physical barriers all present challenges
(Humphries and Walker 2013). Narrow tolerances (e.g. temperature, salinity, oxygen,
turbidity, water velocity) limit a species’ ability to establish populations (Kolar and Lodge
2002).
Garra rufa is a benthoplagic, non-migratory freshwater fish indigenous to the Middle East.
Although this species has wide temperature, oxygen density, and pollution tolerances, they
have low fecundity and are found in streams with salinity levels practically unheard of in
Australia.
There has been no previous risk assessments completed for the importation of G. rufa in
Australia. However, they pose similar risks as other ornamental species which are regularly
brought in to the country. Australian quarantine procedures are already in place to limit the
biosecurity risks.
G. rufa are most commonly referred to as “Doctor Fish”, as they can feed on dead skin and
hence have been used for the treatment of psoriasis and by the spa industry for pedicures
(Ozcelik et al. 2000; Grassberger and Hoch 2006; Ozcelik and Akyol 2011). They have been
imported to dozens of countries for this purpose as well as for the aquarium industry. There
are no records of G. rufa establishing feral populations anywhere in the world.
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1. Taxonomy
(Term of Reference: Provide information on the taxonomy of the species.)(ITIS 2013)
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Actinopterygii
Order
Cypriniformes
Family
Cyprinidae
Genus + Species Garra rufa (Heckel 1843)
Trade name
Doctor Fish
Synonyms:
Discognathus crenulatus Heckel, 1847
Discognathus obtusus Heckel, 1843
Discognathus rufus Heckel, 1843
Garra rufa crenulata (Heckel, 1847)
Garra rufa gymnothorax Berg, 1949
Subspecies: There are no recognized subspecies.
2. Conservation Status
(Terms of Reference: Provide information on the status of the species under the
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Fauna and Flora (CITES).
For example, is the species listed on CITES Appendix I, II or III, and if so, are there any
specific restrictions on the movement of this species? Include information on the
conservation value of the species.)
5
This species is not one of the 5600 animals listed on CITES Appendix I, II or III (CITES 2014).
Nor has it been listed or assessed by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature
(IUCN 2014).
G. rufa is one of the most common species within its distribution (Okur and Yalçin-Özdilek
2008) and is not thought to be under any specific threat (Coad 2014). It is however, listed as
locally vulnerable in Turkey due to a significant regional decline resulting from human
disturbances (Fricke et al. 2007). However, due to the commercial value of the species,
there are many breeders/suppliers around the world making the import of wild-caught
species from at risk populations unnecessary.
3. Ecology
(Terms of Reference: Provide information about the ecology of the species. Include, but
do not restrict your response to:
- lifespan of the species
- size and weight range
- the natural geographic range
- habitat
- diet, including potential to feed on agricultural plants
- social behaviour and groupings
- territorial and aggressive behaviours
- natural predators
- characteristics that may cause harm to humans and other species)
3.1 Description
G. rufa (Figure 1) is one of the smallest members of the family Cyprinidae (carp & minnows),
and is one of about 73 members of the genus Garra (Esmaeili et al. 2009; Coad 2014). It is
characterized by a scaleless head, two pairs of barbels, a well-developed adhesive disc and a
crescent-shaped, toothless, ventral mouth (Coad 2014). The typical body shape is a relatively
thin and long cylindrical structure with a complete lateral line, extending along the middle of
the depth of the tail. Scales are cycloid and moderate to large. Considerable colour variation
is known to exist in G. rufa, as some individuals are pale while others are very dark. Typically,
overall color is brownish-olive to dark green with darkly mottled flanks and a yellowish to
6
whitish belly (Coad 2014). Males and females display a limited form of external sexual
dimorphism, Large males become heavily tuberculate on the front and sides of the snout
and in a band from the eye to the nostril and across to the other nostril and eye (Fowler and
Steinitz 1956).
Figure 1: Adult Garra rufa
3.2 Size and weight range
Maximum length has been determined as 14.0cm (Krupp and Schneider 1989; Fishbase
2011) although there have been some claims of individuals up to 23cm in total length (Coad
2014). Studies on the length-weight relationship for this species determined a value of
a=0.015, and b= 3.15 (Hamidan and Britton 2013). Using these values in the formula W=aLb ,
we gain a theoretical maximum weight of 61g.
3.3 Lifespan
A recent study of wild populations of G. rufa in Iran found a maximum age of 4 years (Abedi
2011). While another study recorded individuals of five years (Patimar et al. 2010). Captive
bred individuals may have longer lifespans with most suppliers reporting lifespans of 6-7
years (garrarufa.com 2014).
3.4 Habitat
G. rufa is found in a range of different lotic (moving water) habitats such as rivers, lakes, and
7
small muddy streams in the Middle East (Coad 2014). It is a non-migratory bottom dwelling
species, generally found hiding under and among stones and vegetation in swiftly flowing
water (Coad 2014). They have been found in both perennial and intermittent mountain
streams (Okur and Yalçin-Özdilek 2008). Environmental conditions of the streams in which
G. rufa was recorded were observed as follows: largely of coarse substrates, water depths
typically ranged from 30 to 50 cm, pH ranged from 7.0-9.0, dissolved oxygen ranging from
2.9-14.8 mg·l-1, temperatures usually ranging from 15-28°C (although some found at the
extremes of 5.8-37°C), water velocities from 1.0 - 34.5 m3·s-1, conductivity values ranging
from 4.2-36.5 µS·cm-1, and salinities ranging from 100-800mg·L-1 (Yalçin-Özdilek and
Ekmekçi 2006; Okur and Yalçin-Özdilek 2008; Ozcelik and Akyol 2011). Additionally, G. rufa
appear to be able to persist in environments contaminated by heavy metals (Gümgüm et al.
1994). One study found G. rufa in an Iranian stream in which only two other species were
encountered, indicating the ability of this species to tolerate poor conditions (listed as
pollution, habitat destruction and drought) (Yazdanpanah 2005).
3.5 Geographic range
The natural geographic range includes the Ceyhan, Jordan, Orontes (=Asi), Quwayq and
Tigris- Euphrates river basins and coastal drainages of the eastern Mediterranean (Coad
2014) found in the countries of Turkey, Syria, Iraq, Iran, Jordan and Saudi Arabia (Fishbase
2014). The global distribution and known collection sites for this species can be viewed in
Figures 2a and 2b.
Figure 2a & 2b: Garra rufa distribution (GBIF 2014).
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G. rufa is considered a common species across its native range, for example, it is one of the
most widespread species and the most common benthic grazer in the Asi River system in
Syria and Turkey (Yalçin-Özdilek and Ekmekçi 2006; Okur and Yalçin-Özdilek 2008), was the
most common fish collected from a system in Southwest Iran (Esmaeili et al. 2006), and the
second most common in the Amanos system in Turkey (Okur and Yalçin-Özdilek 2008).
3.6 Diet
The G. rufa diet consists of aufwuchs (Fishbase 2011), the benthic community growing on
open surfaces. Gut content analysis on fish caught in the Asi River and its tributaries
(Turkey) found mostly benthic plant material, dominated by Chrysophta, Cyanobacteria and
Chlorophyta, with rotifers and protozoa also being recorded (Yalçin-Özdilek and Ekmekçi
2006).
3.7 Social Groupings
Information concerning social behaviour and groupings is rare, although they are generally
considered a schooling species and have an even sex ratio of 1:1 (Abedi 2011).
3.8 Aggressive Behaviour
No information indicating aggressive behaviours could be found. There is no evidence of this
species causing harm to any other species.
3.9 Natural Predators
The streams in which G. rufa is found are fairly low in diversity. One study of the Amanos
river system in the mountains of Turkey found only nine species. This suggests that G. rufa
will have limited experience with predation. Suggested predators of G. rufa include the
European Eel (Anguilla anguilla), several species of catfish (e.g., Clarias gariepinus, Silurus
9
triostegus) (Yalçin-Özdilek and Ekmekçi 2006; Okur and Yalçin-Özdilek 2008), as well as other
piscivorous cyprinids, such as Aspius vorax (Coad 2014) and Carasobarbus canis) (Spataru
and Gophen 1985).
G. rufa, like most other cyprinids, have few defences and can be expected to be susceptible
to predation by a variety of animals at all stages of life. Predation by the Western
Mosquitofish (Gambusia affinis) may have caused the extirpation of G. rufa from the Qishon
River basin, the largest coastal river in Israel (Goren and Galil 2005). A loss of shelter due to
eutrophication and modification of the riverbed for flood prevention deprived the larvae and
post-larvae of shelter and exposed them to Mosquitofish predation.
3.10 Risk to humans
This species has been determined harmless to humans (Fishbase 2011). It has no teeth or
spines that could damage a human. There have been fears over the risks to human health
involved with this species’ use as a therapeutic tool in the salon industry. As these risks
concern the manner in it which G. rufa is kept and used, rather than the animal itself, health
risks will be addressed in section 10.
4. Reproductive Biology
(Terms of Reference: Provide information on the reproductive biology of the species,
including
- the age at maturity (first breeding)
- how frequently breeding occurs
- if the female can store sperm
- how many eggs or live-born young are produced at each breeding event
- if the species has hybridised with other species (both in the wild and in captivity) or
has the potential to hybridise with any other species
- if the species can hybridise, are the progeny fertile)
4.1 Reproductive biology: characteristics, parental care and age at maturity
G. rufa are broadcast spawners, so nest building, egg guarding, parental care and sperm
10
storage do not appear to occur with this species (Ünlü 2006). Individuals are single-sexed,
with no records of sex change or hermaphrodism. They reach sexual maturity at 2-3 years,
10 cm in length and a weight of 50 g (Al-Rudainy 2008). This is comparable with other Garra
species such as G. rossica (Coad 2014).
4.2 Spawning behaviour: timing, habitat requirements, frequency
Spawning occurs annually in the spring, between April and July in different parts of the
geographical range, with a requirement for clean, shallow gravel beds for spawning (Ünlü
2006). Different individuals release eggs and sperm at different times (Coad 2014). Studies
of the oocyte development and variation in gonadosomatic index (GSI) indicate an extended
spawning period (Abedi 2011, Yazdanpanah 2005, (Bardakci et al. 2000)) which could be an
adaptation to unstable environmental conditions. Generally, all mature oocytes are
spawned at once, although up to 20% may be retained for later spawning (Abedi 2011).
4.3 Fecundity: Number of eggs
The fecundity of G. rufa in wild populations (283–3,794 oocytes) (Yazdanpanah 2005; Abedi
2011) is low compared to other cyprinids, for example Barbus grypus (16,000–235,784
oocytes) (Oymak et al. 2008), Labeo senegalensis (12,948–74,832 oocytes) (Montchowui et
al. 2010), and Labeo parvus (8,723–124,363 oocytes) (Montchowui et al. 2007). High
temperatures and poor food conditions in some habitats may be limiting factors in
reproduction for this species. Depression of vitellogenesis was noted in a hot spring
population in Turkey, perhaps due to temperature and starvation (Bardakci et al. 2000).
4.4 Hybridization
There are G.rufa hybrids advertised online, however, the consensus is that this is a scam.
They are advertised as ‘Chin Chin fish’ a G. rufa hybrid species from China, but they are
actually juveniles of tilapia species (Jo 2008; Ng 2009). There are no credible reports of
11
hybrid species.
There are no other members of the Garra genus in Australia, making hybridization with
native species highly unlikely.
5. Feral Populations
(Term of Reference: Provide information on whether this species has established feral
populations, and if so, where those populations are. Include information on whether this
species has been introduced to other countries, even if it has not established feral
populations.)
G. rufa has been imported into more than 60 countries around the world, and yet there have
been no records of feral populations anywhere in the world. These countries include but are
not limited to: the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, Croatia, China,
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Italy, Latvia, Malta, Portugal,
Poland, the Netherlands, South Korea, Singapore, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Hungary, Greece,
Slovakia, India, Pakistan, Thailand, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Hong Kong,
Bucharest, Czech Republic, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, Spain, Israel, France, Sweden, Bahrain,
Iceland, Mexico, Abu Dhabi, Aruba, Argentina, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Curacao,
Dubai, Egypt, Morocco, Paraguay, Peru, South Africa and Norway (garrarufa.com 2014).
Within the natural geographical range of G. rufa there have been no translocations or mixing
of populations due to human disturbance. All the populations from the Tigris, Euphrates and
Mediterranean basins have unique haplotypes. None of the populations across these basins
share any mtDNA haplotypes with each other. High level of genetic structuring between
these populations provides evidence of a complete isolation of the basins to which they
belong (Durna et al. 2010).
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6. Completed Risk Assessments
(Term of Reference: Provide information on, and the results of any other environmental
risk assessments undertaken on the species both in Australia and overseas, including any
Import Risk Analyses undertaken by Biosecurity Australia.)
6.1 Australia
There has been no Import Risk Analysis undertaken by Biosecurity Australia to date for this
particular species.
According to Biosecurity Australia’s Import Risk Analysis (IRA) Handbook, they only
undertake a full IRA when:

relevant risk management measures have not been established or

relevant risk management measures for a similar good and pest/disease
combination do exist, but the likelihood and/or consequences of entry,
establishment or spread of pests or diseases could differ significantly from
those previously assessed (DAFF 2011).
In this case, the risk level is similar to that of other permitted live ornamental fish and
Biosecurity Australia already has risk management measures in place with the ‘Conditions
for the importation of live freshwater ornamental finfish into Australia’ (AQIS 1999)
(Appendix 1).
6.2 Canada
The Canadian government commissioned a biological summary of Garra rufa from the
Centre of Expertise for Aquatic Risk Assessment, Central and Arctic Region, Fisheries and
Oceans Canada (Jarvis 2011) as a Canadian Manuscript Report of Fisheries and Aquatic
Sciences. This report contains no concrete recommendations, however, this species is
currently available in Canada.
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6.3 New Zealand
New Zealand has approved Garra ceylonsis, a close relative of G. rufa, for import
(Biosecurity-NZ 2011) .
7. Likelihood of establishment in Australia
(Term of Reference: Assess the likelihood that the species could establish a breeding
population in the Australian environment should it ever be released from effective
human control. Include at least the following factors:
- ability to find food sources
- ability to survive and adapt to different climatic conditions (e.g. temperatures, rainfall
patterns)
- ability to find shelter
- rate of reproducing
- any characteristics that the species has which could increase its chance of survival in
the Australian environment)
At least 1181 exotic freshwater species have been imported for the aquarium trade (McNee
2002); 34 of these species have escaped into waterways, establishing invasive populations
(Arthington and McKenzie 1997). Invading fishes may be at any trophic level, from herbivore
to detritivore to top predator, but most alien invaders, aside from the common carp, have
been carnivores (Humphries and Walker 2013).
7.1 Tolerance to environmental conditions
G. rufa is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures, oxygen levels, and even pollutants.
However, it has failed to establish wild populations in any of the dozens of countries that
have imported it.
There is limited data concerning the threshold levels of conductivity and salinity of G. rufa,
but the levels of the streams where they are found is extremely low (conductivity of 4.2-36.5
µS·cm-1 and salinity of 100 - 800mg/l; section 3).
14
The soil in Australia naturally contains salt, having accumulated over thousands of years. This
salt may come from prevailing winds carrying ocean salt, the evaporation of inland seas, and
from weathered parent rocks. This salt is picked up by rain seeping through the soil, into
ground water and carried into streams (Humphries and Walker 2013). As such, salinity levels
are highly variable. The variable salinity levels and lack of threshold data make determining
the area of Australia that meets the environmental needs of G.rufa problematic.
G. rufa would likely find suitable habitat in at least a few areas of Australia. The ideal habitat
being shallow (<50cm), swift-flowing, slightly alkaline streams (pH 7.0-9.0), with a coarse
substrate of clean gravel required for successful spawning and generally low salinity.
7.2 Ability to find food
Provided G. rufa were released into one of these ideal habitats, it would most likely be able
to find sufficient benthic algae to survive. Benthic algae is generally common, and their
survival in Turkish hot springs demonstrates an ability to thrive in low nutrient conditions.
7.3 Susceptibility to predation
Establishment would be limited by predation. Limited exposure to predators in native
populations, and their fearless behaviour towards humans, likely means that G. rufa has not
evolved sufficient predator avoidance behaviour. The introduction of the Western
Mosquitofish, Gambesia affinis, combined with habitat changes, resulted in extirpation of G.
rufa from a river system in Israel (Goren and Galil 2005). The Eastern Mosquitofish,
Gambesia holbrooki, was introduced in Australia in the 1920’s and has since spread around
Australia and been declared a noxious species (Humphries and Walker 2013). The current
distribution of G. holbrooki coincides with much of G. rufas potential habitat, and may serve
to keep any introductions from establishing.
G. rufa has limited experience with predators. G. rufa may be able to adapt some innate
predator avoidance strategies in order to escape the Australian versions of their natural
predators, like Australian eels and catfish. However, Australian waters host a series of
15
predators which G. rufa would not have encountered before, including but not limited to:
perch, cod, bass, trout, saratoga, tarpon, long tom, snapper, barramundi, sharks, and rays
(Pusey et al. 2004).
7.4 Life history characteristics
If a population were to establish itself in Australia, G. rufas life history characteristics would
act to limit its dispersal. G. rufa is non-migratory, and has a relatively short lifespan, as well
as a relatively high age at sexual maturity. It also has very low reproductive rates, no
parental care, and highly specific spawning requirements (section 3 & 4).
7.5 Characteristics that favour establishment
G. rufa may be able to establish an alien population in specific areas despite these hardships,
were it released in large numbers. Unfortunately, the manner in which G. rufa is kept for
the spa industry means that owners of this fish are likely to have a minimum of several
hundred individuals.
8. Potential impacts of establishment
(Term of Reference: Provide a comprehensive assessment of the potential impact of the
species should it establish feral population/s in Australia. Include, but do not restrict
your assessment to the impact of this species on:
- similar niche species (i.e. competition with other species for food, shelter etc.)
- is the species susceptible to, or could transmit any pests or disease
- probable prey/food sources, including agricultural crops
- habitat and local environmental conditions
- any control/eradication programs that could be applied in Australia if the species was
released or escaped
- any characteristic or behaviour of the species which may cause land degradation i.e.
soil erosion from hooves, digging
- any potential threat to humans)
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8.1 Effects on native fauna
As G. rufa is unknown as an invasive species, direct observation or measurement of
ecological impact is uncertain. Due to the modest size and largely herbivorous tendency of
G. rufa, its sole direct impact is likely to be in competition for food resources with resident
bottom-dwelling species that live in compatible habitats and have similar dietary
requirements and feeding habits. However, the exigencies of life in Australian inland waters,
over many eons, have ensured that most of the modern native fishes are hardy,
opportunistic, often highly mobile species with life cycles attuned to an erratic climate.
Generalists tend to predominate in Australia, broadly reflecting the nature of the
environment (Humphries and Walker 2013). All species examined as potential competitors
for G. rufa had wide dietary niches, and thus would be most likely to adapt to competition
from this species.
8.2 Effects on prey/food sources
G. rufa generally feeds on benthic algae and microorganisms found on hard substrates. This
type of food source is not rare, and is quick to reproduce. G. rufa predation/feeding would
likely have negligible impact on the ecosystem.
8. 3 Effects on habitats/local environments
G. rufa has not been observed conducting any digging or burrowing behaviour that could
impact local environments. They are non-migratory and thus unlikely to spread pests, weeds
or infections along waterways. The majority of G. rufa’s diet consists of unicellular algae, so
they are unlikely to affect vegetation or wetlands. Although they are a numerous and
schooling species, their small size renders them unlikely to contribute to pollution through
bioloading.
17
8. 4 Effects on primary industries/property
This species is unlikely to have any effects on primary industries through direct impacts.
Their small size and harmless, toothless status make it highly unlikely they could damage any
type of livestock or crop, even other fish or invertebrate stocks. The only potential effect
would be as a vector for disease or infections.
8. 4 Effects on humans
Feral populations of this species are highly unlikely to cause any risk or nuisance to humans.
The behaviour of G. rufa feeding on human skin is harmless, although it could be considered
a nuisance to some. This behaviour only occurs in nature in the hot springs where nutrient
levels are extremely low. The species would almost certainly find better sources of food
than bathers were it released in Australian streams.
8.3 Introduction of bacteria, parasites or disease
The most plausible possible risk of G.rufa would be in the introduction of pests or disease.
All fish species can carry bacteria, parasites and diseases. While there are many records of
bacteria, viruses and parasites in G. rufa, none are unique to the species and they are all
already present in Australian waters or other ornamental fish in the country.
Introductions of species from the family Cyprinidae to Australian waterways, including
goldfish (Crassius auratus) and common carp (Cyprinus carpio), have had devastating effects
on native populations, including via the transmission of diseases and parasites to native fish
species. These two species are well known for their role in the spread of diseases around
the world and many countries have targeted them as high risk species.
The Cyprinidae family is large however, and no information regarding the spread of disease
to other wildlife from either G. rufa specifically or from any member of the genus Garra
could be found, although the incidence of parasites and virus’ in this species are well
documented. This list includes: various Dactylogyrus spp. Monogeneans (Jalali and Molnár
18
1990; Gussev et al. 1993), Gyrodactylus spp. (Jalali 2005), Cucullanus spp. (Nematoda)
(Moravec and Rahemo 1993), and small-sized nematode larvae (of the family
Cucullanidae)(Yalçin-Özdilek and Ekmekçi 2006), a digenean (Pseudochetosoma
salmonicola); Aeromonas sobria (Majtán et al. 2012); Group B Streptococcus agalactiae; and
a fish virus belonging to the aquabirnavirus group, serogroup C (Ruane et al. 2013).
It is possible that G. rufa with a healthy appearance may be carrying diseases that would be
harmful to native Australian wildlife. These are the same risks associated with importing any
species of live fish. Health regulations and quarantine procedures are in place in Australia to
minimize these risks.
9. Recommended Import Conditions
(Term of Reference: What conditions or restrictions, if any, could be applied to the
import of the species to reduce any potential for negative environmental impacts (e.g.
single sex imports, desexing animal prior to import etc.)
9.1 Conditions on the animals
G.rufa presents only a limited form of external sexual dimorphism prior to spawning, making
single sex imports nearly impossible (Coad 2014). Meanwhile sterile imports would increase
the required number of imports of G. rufa, thus increasing the associated risks of importing
noxious species or disease.
Importation of G. rufa should follow the AQIS Conditions for the importation of live
freshwater ornamental finfish to Australia (Appendix 1). These conditions include: import
permits, health certificates and quarantine procedures.
9.2 Conditions on the importer
The minimal likelihood of establishment in Australian waters suggest responsible ownership
of this species is sufficient. However, due to the growth rate of the industry, and the
inexperience of many salon owners in the care and identification of fish, as well as a number
19
of online suppliers are providing not only insufficient care instructions but incorrect species,
it is recommended that importers hold permits.
G. rufa has been specially selected as a toothless, relatively harmless species. Yet there are
many reports of shipments of alternative juvenile fish species (Jo 2008; Ng 2009). The
species provided in lieu of G. rufa is often juvenile Nile Tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, a
toothed, noxious species, increasing both the health risks of treatment, as well as the
biosecurity risk for Australia.
Allowing limited import permits would minimize these risks by limiting imports to those with
some knowledge of the species they are expecting, as well as limiting the number of orders
from less reputable overseas dealers that may be shipping noxious species into Australia.
This would also encourage Australian standards of care instructions and advice for the
industry providers. Licensed importers and breeders will be responsible for educating their
customers on the importance of keeping G.rufa away from natural waterways. Keepers of
large amounts of fish should be encouraged to join the Pet Industry Association of Australia
(PIAA) and to follow their guidelines regarding the care and keeping of fish for commercial
purposes (Appendix 2).
10. Purpose of Garra rufa
(Term of Reference: Provide a summary of the types of activities that the specimen may
be used for if imported into Australia (e.g. pet, commercial, scientific). You must discuss:
- the benefit of this species for these activities
- potential trade in the species
- why this species has been chosen)
10.1 Aquarium Use
The tolerance of lower water quality and grazing behaviour of G. rufa make them a popular
aquarium species, as they keep surfaces in the tank clean. There is also some evidence that
20
juveniles act as cleaner fish, removing parasites from other members of the tank community
(Coad 2014). However, aquariums are not the most common place to find G. rufa.
10.2 Medicinal use
G.rufa is most commonly known as Doctorfish, for their treatment of skin conditions. These
fish are found in hot springs in the municipality of Kangal, in the Sivas region of Turkey. Hot
springs in the region have been frequented for their health benefits since Roman times
(Ozcelik and Akyol 2011). Legend claims that shepherds in the region found their skin
ailments cured after wading in the water. Spas have been offering the treatment in Kangal
since 1942, and the treatment has gained widespread attention in the media and
dermatological research since the early 1980’s (Ozcelik and Akyol 2011).
The small, toothless, fish nibble the dead skin of bathers in their pools as a source of protein.
Nearly 1000 people visit these pools every day (Appendix 3). This treatment has been found
to help sufferers of a variety of skin disorders including psoriasis, vitiligo, eczema, and other
skin diseases belonging to the icthyosis family (Ozcelik and Akyol 2011). An early study had
patients spend 3-4 hours in the pools twice a day for 2-3 weeks (Ozcelik et al. 2000). These
participants noted a significant reduction (decline in PASI score of 80-100%) in their psoriasis
symptoms that lasted approximately 9 months. The fish removed the scaly squamae and
promoted healing. Researchers have since acknowledged that the selenium levels in the
water, the UV exposure and the psychological stress relief of a spa holiday may have been
significant factors promoting these improvements (Ozcelik and Akyol 2011).
Since this initial study, laboratory experiments have proven that fish treatments for 2 hours
per day in individual tubs over several weeks combined with UV treatment produce similar
results (Grassberger and Hoch 2006). While this treatment is undoubtedly more time
consuming than topical steroids or other forms of psoriasis treatment, this method enjoys
the benefits of being completely natural, free of side effects, and long lasting. More
research in a clinical setting is necessary to determine the benefits of this treatment.
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10.3 Aesthetic use
Commercially, treatment by Doctorfish has expanded outside the realm of skin disorders
into the general spa industry, being very popular as a pedicure treatment in the removal of
calluses from feet. Fish pedicures can be found in dozens of countries (section 5), and are in
high demand. Within two years of the first fish pedicure in the United Kingdom, nearly 300
salons across the country were offering the service (Wallop 2012).
10.4 Health Risks of Aesthetic/Medical use
Growth of the fish pedicure industry in the United States and the UK has been slowed by
mass negative media attention speculating that fish pedicures could spread infections and
even viruses like HIV. A number of states have banned fish pedicures due to non-compliance
with by-laws associated with allowing animals in salons and not being able to disinfect the
fish properly between clients, as well as animal welfare concerns.
This prompted an inquiry by the UK’s Health Protection Industry in cooperation with a series
of other health organisations which found the risk of infection to be ‘very low’.
Nevertheless, they provided guidelines on responsible treatment procedures that would
reduce the risk even further (Appendix 3). They also recommended that individuals that
were immunocompromised or had underlying medical conditions including diabetes and
psoriasis avoid these treatments.
Since the publication of the Health risk assessment, a scientific study has determined that
G.rufa is tolerant of two types of disinfectant, chloramine T and peracetic acid (Sirri et al.
2013). Although further testing is required, the possibility of disinfection may make G.rufa
treatment safer for those who suffer from skin infections.
This may require further review of the industry if it becomes established in Australia.
11. Guidelines for keeping Garra rufa
22
(Term of Reference: Provide detailed guidelines on the way in which the species should
be kept, transported and disposed of in accordance with the types of activity that the
species may be used for if imported into Australia. You must include:
- the containment (e.g. cage, enclosure) and management standards for this species to
prevent escape or release. This should also talk about the security standards for this
specimen
- the disposal options for surplus specimens)
11.1 Transport
Fish should be transported according to International Air Transport Association (IATA)
regulations (available online https://www.iata.org/publications/Pages/live-animals.aspx).
The basic guidelines are outlined in the PIAA guidelines in Appendix 2.
11.2 Housing and care
Fish should be kept in aquaria with suitable access to shelter, clean water, light/dark and
food. This is a schooling species that shows no aggressive behaviour as long as they are well
fed. Owners of G.rufa for commercial purposes should be encouraged to follow the PIAA
guidelines regarding keeping of ornamental fish. These guidelines include housing and care
instructions as well as stocking density and water quality recommendations (Appendix 2).
Membership includes training on many subjects relevant to the keeping of animals for
commercial purposes.
Animal welfare groups have voiced concerns surrounding the fear that salons starve the G.
rufa in order to ensure their voracious appetite for dead skin. However, human skin does
not contain all the nutrients that G. rufa needs to thrive and it is in a business’ best interest
to keep healthy fish. General advice for spa owners is for tanks to have sufficient fish for
some of them to be resting at any given time and includes providing high quality food.
G.rufa are algal grazers and naturally feed almost constantly throughout the day.
11.3 Unwanted specimens
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Any unwanted fish should be offered back to the in-country supplier or a local fish retailer.
Diseased specimens should be humanely euthanized and disposed of inside a plastic bag in
the rubbish bin.
12. Australian Laws
(Term of Reference: Provide information on all other Commonwealth, state and territory
legislative controls on the species, including:
- the species’ current quarantine status, or
- pest or noxious status, or
- whether it is prohibited or controlled by permit or licence in any state or territory)
As this species has never been permitted in Australia to date, I could find no evidence of any
laws currently governing its use/status.
24
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