Managing Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei at Shrimp Farms
Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei is a tiny parasite that disrupts shrimp digestive
systems. The animals’ reduced feeding results in slow growth and wide size
variation. This course describes how to identify EHP and recommends practices
to exclude the pathogen through biosecurity measures. Impacts at affected
facilities can be minimized through careful pond preparation, stocking with
high-quality postlarvae and pond management that avoids overfeeding and
accumulation of sludge.
Managing Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei at Shrimp Hatcheries
Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei is a tiny parasite that disrupts shrimp digestive
systems. Its presence reduces feeding and results in slow growth. In addition
to learning the symptoms of EHP and the best testing methods, students will learn
the most effective control is
exclusion through strict biosecurity. If a hatchery is affected, it should be aggressively
disinfected, with additional biosecurity measures taken to limit EHP spore loads and potential
reintroduction.
Managing Early Mortality Syndrome at Shrimp Farms
Early mortality syndrome causes high mortality of shrimp
in their juvenile stages. The affected shrimp die from hepatopancreas dysfunction and
secondary infections. This course describes the Vibrio bacteria that cause EMS and how their increasing density produces a damaging toxin. There is no “cure” for EMS, but
the use of EMS-free postlarvae and efforts to minimize
the accumulation of organic matter can
limit its presence and impacts.
Managing Early Mortality Syndrome at Shrimp Hatcheries
Early mortality syndrome (EMS) is a serious disease that
causes hepatopancreas dysfunction and up to 100 percent mortality in farmed
shrimp. Students will learn the bacterial cause of EMS and that virulence depends on infection
route, exposure time and general shrimp condition. The most effective practices
for controlling EMS at hatcheries are sourcing disease-free broodstock, avoiding live feeds, limiting organic loads in rearing tanks and regular system disinfection.