Prawn disease refers to various illnesses that affect prawns, often with significant impacts on aquaculture. These diseases can be caused by a range of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi, leading to substantial economic losses in prawn farming. In Asia, some of the most common prawn diseases include acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND), white-spot syndrome virus (WSSV), and Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP).
Common Types of Prawn Diseases
Several diseases commonly affect prawns, posing challenges for prawn farmers. Here's a breakdown of some significant ones:
- Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (AHPND):
- Cause: Bacteria
- Impact: Causes mortality in prawns.
- White-Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV):
- Cause: Virus
- Impact: Leads to high mortality rates.
- Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP):
- Cause: Fungal microsporidian.
- Impact: Affects the hepatopancreas, impacting growth and survival.
Table Summarizing Prawn Diseases
| Disease | Cause | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (AHPND) | Bacteria | Causes mortality in prawns. |
| White-Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV) | Virus | Leads to high mortality rates. |
| Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP) | Fungal microsporidian | Affects the hepatopancreas, impacting growth and survival. |
Prevention and Management
Preventing and managing prawn diseases involves a multifaceted approach:
- Biosecurity Measures: Implementing strict biosecurity protocols to prevent the introduction and spread of pathogens.
- Water Quality Management: Maintaining optimal water quality to reduce stress on prawns and minimize disease outbreaks.
- Disease Monitoring: Regularly monitoring prawn populations for signs of disease.
- Responsible Use of Antibiotics: Using antibiotics judiciously to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
