Common Shrimp Diseases: Causes and Prevention | White Spot

White Spot is common disease in Shrimp farming. Developing countries have been investing a lot in shrimp production sector since the consumption has increased drastically in the past decade. Shrimp is undoubtedly one of the most loved sea foods among the others but increased risks involved in production is a constant concern.

Shrimps are highly sensitive to a series of environmental factors, the most commonly occurring diseases include: AHPND, WSSV, EHP.

AHPND: Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease

A bacterial infection that mainly infects monodon and vannamei shrimps has been reported mostly in Asian countries. It mainly targets gut-associated shrimp tissues and organs. Symptoms include sudden mass mortalities.

To prevent this, one must use high quality post-larvae. Good sanitary conditions, brood stock management can prevent this disease to a great extent.

AquaConnect’s Product Recommendation:

• WSS ( White Spot Syndrome ) Controller

WSSV: White Spot Syndrome Virus

This is one of the most commonly occurring shrimp disease caused by a virus. Shrimps infected by this virus can have lethargy, reduced appetite and food consumption, loose cuticle with white spots.

WSSV can be prevented if one takes enough care while screening brood stock. Rapid changes in water conditions have to be prevented. Avoiding shrimp stress, fresh feeds(crustacean), frequent water exchange is advisable. Once infected, treating the pond with chlorine would be of great help to kill infected shrimps and carriers.

AquaConnect’s Product Recommendation:

• Virus Protector

EHP: Enterocytozoan hepatopenaei

EHP is an endemic found in almost all Asian countries now. Characterized by stunted growth this disease is caused by microsporidian parasite.

This can be prevented by good pond management. Proper pond preparation by physically removing accumulated organic matter. Pond bottoms have to be treated properly.

AquaConnect’s Product Recommendation:

• NUTRIGUT

To conclude, since shrimps are highly sensitive to external factors, all environmental conditions should be monitored throughout the growth cycle. Most of the infections can be prevented if there is proper pond management and hygiene. Over stocking, over feeding, under feeding, low sanitation can all be equally problematic. Proper pond management can yield more produce and hence risk is reduced to a great extent resulting in huge profit.