Lobster disease, particularly epizootic shell disease (ESD), is a condition affecting American lobsters, characterized by severe shell damage.
Understanding Epizootic Shell Disease (ESD)
ESD is a significant threat to lobster populations, especially in the coastal waters of New England.
Characteristics of ESD:
- Melanized Lesions: Lobsters with ESD develop deep, dark lesions on their shells. According to reference information, these deep, melanized lesions can sometimes spread over the entire body of the lobster.
- Shell Degradation: The disease causes the shell to erode and become damaged, making the lobster vulnerable to infections and predation.
- Widespread Impact: The appearance and prevalence of epizootic shell disease in the American lobster has been devastating to the industry in the coastal waters of New England, highlighting its severe economic impact.
Impact of ESD:
The disease has far-reaching consequences:
- Ecological Disruption: Decline in lobster populations can disrupt the marine ecosystem.
- Economic Losses: Lobster fishing industries suffer significant financial losses due to reduced catches.
- Conservation Concerns: ESD poses a threat to the long-term survival of lobster populations.
