CHAPTER I

SUBJECT MATTER, SCOPE AND DEFINITIONS

Scope
Article 2
1
This Regulation shall apply to the introduction of alien species and translocation of locally absent species for their use in aquaculture in the Community taking place after the date this Regulation becomes applicable by virtue of Article 25(1).
2
This Regulation shall not apply to translocations of locally absent species within Member States, except for cases where, on the basis of scientific advice, there are grounds for foreseeing environmental threats due to the translocation. In the case that an advisory committee has been appointed under Article 5 it will be responsible for assessing the risks.
3
This Regulation shall cover all aquaculture activities located within the jurisdiction of Member States irrespective of their size or characteristics. It shall cover all alien and locally absent aquatic organisms farmed. It shall cover aquaculture using any form of aquatic medium.
4
This Regulation shall not apply to the keeping of ornamental aquatic animals or plants in pet-shops, garden centres, contained garden ponds or aquaria which comply with Article 6 of Commission Decision 2006/656/EC of 20 September 2006 laying down the animal health conditions and certification requirements for imports of fish for ornamental purpose or in facilities which are equipped with effluent treatment systems which fulfil the aims set out in Article 1.
5
This Regulation, except for Articles 3 and 4, shall not apply to the species listed in Annex IV. The risk assessment in Article 9 shall not apply to species listed in Annex IV except in cases where Member States wish to take measures to restrict the use of the species concerned in their territory.
6
Movements of alien or locally absent species to be held in closed aquaculture facilities shall not be subject to prior environmental risk assessment except in cases where Member States wish to take appropriate measures.
7
Introductions and translocations for use in ‘closed aquaculture facilities’ may at a future date be exempted from the permit requirement of Chapter III, based on new scientific information and advice. Advances in the scientific understanding of bio security of modern closed systems are expected inter alia from Community-funded research on alien species. The relative decision will be taken not later than 31 March 2009 following the procedure described under Article 24.
OJ L 271, 30.9.2006, p. 71.