The status of viral diseases of carp in Korea: Its control and research development

The carp (Cyprinus carpio) is the most common species of cultured fish, in particular, common carp and Israel carp have been cultured as an edible fish for several decades in Korea. Viral diseases of carp have never been reported until 1998 despite its long history of aquaculture in Korea. However, mass mortality occurred in populations of cultured carp from 1998 to 1999 resulting in a drastic reduction of carp production in Korea. The infected fish showed dark coloration, excessive mucus secretion from the surface and gills and branchial necrosis.