White Spot Syndrome in Aquaculture
White spot syndrome (WSSV) is a disease which affects the health of shrimp and other crustaceans in aquaculture. First emerged in China in 1994, the disease quickly spread throughout Asia, becoming a major source of economic loss in the global shrimp farming industry. The causative organism of WSSV is a virus belonging to the Nodaviridae family. It was identified as a DNA virus, carried by an intermediate host, and can be transmitted through horizontal and vertical transmission.
The most typical symptom of WSSV is the presence of white spots, ranging in size from small to large, caused by the death of melanophores. These white spots are often accompanied by a general loss of color, and may eventually lead to the death of the affected shrimp. In addition to the white spot lesions, infected shrimps may also suffer from hyperactivity, rapid moulting, loss of appetite, and deformity in the infected areas. Additionally, WSSV-infected shrimps may have difficulty in molting, leading to soft-shelled individuals that are more vulnerable to external bacterial infections.
Infected shrimps tend to die within a few days, and can spread the virus quickly through water, making it extremely difficult to contain. The only practical way to prevent white spot syndrome is a strict adherence to biosecurity measures, such as water quality testing and the treatment of water during transfers. WSSV may also be present in some commercial feed, and so it is important to ensure that only certified, quality feed is bought. Vaccination against the WSSV virus is available, but the efficacy of these vaccines is still unknown.
Researchers are still working to determine how WSSV is spread and how to stop it from further spreading. They are also looking into the development of new treatments or possible vaccines. The best way to prevent WSSV is to make sure that only certified, quality feed and water are used in aquaculture operations. Strict biosecurity procedures should also be followed to minimize the spread of the virus.
White spot syndrome can have a devastating effect on shrimp and other crustaceans in aquaculture. It is essential to learn more about the disease and how to treat and prevent it in order to minimize the economic and environmental costs of its spread. Further research will be necessary to devise effective treatments and control measures to ensure that this devastating disease is contained and eradicated.