Oban fish health unit nets experienced fish vet Pflaum 

Ocean Ecology, a player in the UK farmed fish health sector, has announced the appointment of Sara Pflaum as aquaculture veterinarian at its Fish Health Unit in Oban.

The company said Pflaum brings many years of operational experience as a registered vet to its growing team, including her recent specialisation in veterinary clinical pathology focusing on salmonids.

Ocean Ecology, which is majority owned by Norwegian fish health, environmental and technical consultancy group Åkerblå Group, added that the top-tier qualification encompasses haematology, blood biochemistry, cytology, assay validation, and quality management.

Clinical pathology is widely used in many veterinary areas to help clinicians evaluate pathophysiology, diagnose disease, and assess prognosis. It has many potential applications in aquaculture to support fish health assessment and decision making.

Respect and recognition

Ocean Ecology said in an article on its website that Pflaum spent eight years at Fish Vet Group, gaining respect and recognition throughout the industry, before starting a residency at University of Glasgow.

It added that her broad experience and deep understanding of fish health and pathology will play a key role in helping the company provide knowledge-based fish health services in Scotland.

Pflaum’s role will include conducting site visits and she will also be integral to further developing Ocean Ecology’s advisory services and independent assessments.

“I am thrilled to have Sara joining our team and sharing our ambition of building a new and independent centre of excellence within fish health,” said Jørgen Vatn who is leading the fish health unit.

“Sara has a unique combination of hands-on experience and targeted specialisation within clinical pathology, which will greatly benefit our customers.”