Nith District Salmon Fishery Board

The Statutory Body Responsible For The Management Of Migratory Salmonids In The River Nith Catchment
Gyrodactylus salaris

What is the Gs parasite?

The Gs (Gyrodactylus salaris) parasite is a highly contagious bug that has devastated freshwater salmon stocks in a number of countries. 

Less than half a millimetre long, the Gs parasite multiplies very rapidly, and it only takes one to start an epidemic.

NDSFB's response to the risk in the River Nith

  • All proprietors have been issued with information packs on current disease prevention measures.
  • Information Signage has been erected at popular points of entry throughout the Nith Catchment.
  • NDSFB has co-operated with other rivers across the South West of Scotland to ensure consistency in approach to disease prevention initiatives and signage.


Here's what you need to do

The Gs parasite needs a wet environment to survive.  If you are travelling to or from an affected country make sure any sports equipment (such as waders, fishing equipment, bags, canoes and windsurfing gear) is completely dry before use here.

  • Dry equipment at a minimum of 20oC for at least 2 days
  • Heat for at least 1 hour at temperatures of above 60oC
  • Deep freeze for at least a day
  • Immerse in a solution* suitable for killing the Gs for a minimum of 10 minutes.

* A Chemical solution which can be used is Virkon Aquatic (1%)
This solution can be purchased from local agricultural suppliers.

More information about the devastating effects of Gs can be found at          www.infoscotland.com/gsbug
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