Aquarium & Ornamental Fish

You need a permit to keep some species of plants, exotic fish, algae and organisms usually kept for display in aquaria.

Introduced aquatic organisms can cause considerable problems and environmental harm if released (accidentally or otherwise) into South Australia’s natural waterways. They can:

  • displace native species by competing for or destroying their habitat
  • compete for food supply and disturb the balance of the food chain
  • carry diseases that are harmful to our native organisms.

Flow-on effects caused by exotic pests could include serious economic impacts on coastal communities that are heavily reliant on recreational and commercial fisheries.

A recent example of an introduced organism causing significant environmental harm is the seaweed Caulerpa taxifolia, thought to have been introduced into West Lakes from a discarded aquarium. This extremely invasive saltwater alga has now been found growing in West Lakes and the upper reaches of the Port River. The week can affect native seagrass meadows and bottom-dwelling communities, threatening fish breeding and feeding grounds.

To help reduce the risk of introduced aquatic organisms causing problems in South Australia's waterways, PIRSA Fisheries has identified species that:

  • are considered safe to be kept and have proven to be of little concern (low risk species)
  • could pose a higher risk of damage to waterways (high risk species)
  • pose a very serious threat to South Australia’s natural waterways (illegal or prohibited species).

Low risk species

This area of the PIRSA website is currently under review.


High risk species

This area of the PIRSA web site is currently under review.


Prohibited (noxious) fish list

Some fish pose significant risks to South Australia's aquatic environment.  These fish have been identified and declared noxious.  This means they can not be held or traded in South Australia.  A list of prohibited (noxious) fish is provided here.   


 

Breeders and Wholesalers

Large scale breeders and wholesalers may require a licence under the Aquaculture Act 2001.  Application forms are available from the PIRSA Aquaculture web site.

For further information please contact PIRSA Aquaculture