Human Health and Aquarium Keeping

Salmonella
Warm aquarium waters is able to incubate a number of potentially harmful bacteria including species of Salmonella (Hay & Seal, 1994). This bacteria can travel internationally in "carriage" water. Such bacteria have the potential to cause stomach disorders, septicemia and meningitis. Water from domestc sources is a relatively low risk but aquarium keepers should wash their hands after being in contact with aquarium water.

References

• Dombrowski, D. (2007). Emergency care of invertebrates. Vet Clin Exot Anim 10, 621-645.
• Hey, J & Seal, D.V. (1994) Tropical aquaria water and diarrhoea. The Journal of Infection 30, 84-5.