LOOSE SHELL SYNDROME (LSS)

What is LSS?

Loose shell syndrome is one of the economically important chronic diseases of shrimp. This is a condition of shrimp where the shell turns into soft and loose covering over the muscles. LSS is formed due to various factors, mainly the poor pond condition and management. 

What are all the signs of LSS infection?

The affected shrimps can be identified with 

1. Paper-like carapace, soft muscle, and a gap between muscle and exoskeleton, 
2. Pigmented hepatopancreas
3. Muscle gills are damaged, and fouling in the gill makes respiratory problems.
4. Behavioral changes like off-feeding, 
5. Lose of weight, 
6. Reduction in daily growth rate, 
7. Lethargy  
8. Impaired molting and progressive mortality.

Reasons for LSS

LSS manifest due to 

• Poor water quality
• Nutritional deficiency
• Low-quality feed
• Poor pond bottom condition, 
• Exposure to certain chemical pesticides. 

LSS can also be caused by fungi, bacteria, protozoa in which deposition of the suspended particles on the shrimp appendages and exoskeleton makes them more vulnerable.

How to control LSS infection? 

• Use of good quality hygienic feed 
• Stock shrimps with low rates.
• Maintaining water quality conditions by frequent water exchange helps to reduce the occurrence of LSSD. 
• Use probiotics to create better water conditions.