Luminescent Bacterial Management in Shrimp (Prawn): Disease Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Control, and Prevention

Luminescent bacterial disease, also known as luminous vibriosis, is a severe bacterial infection that attacks the Penaeus monodon tiger shrimp species. The disease is caused by Vibrio harveyi, a bioluminescent bacterium that can cause massive mortality in shrimp farms. Infection can occur through direct interaction with infected shrimp or polluted water, resulting in signs such as lethargy, lack of hunger, and shell discoloration.

The severity of the disease can vary depending on factors such as water temperature and salinity. Control measures for luminous vibriosis include maintaining good water quality, avoiding overcrowding, and using antibiotics or probiotics. Early detection and treatment are crucial to minimizing the economic impact of the disease.

Luminescent Bacterial Management in Shrimp (Prawn)

The Pathogen Responsible for Luminescent Bacterial Disease

Luminescent bacterial disease in shrimp is caused by certain species of bioluminescent bacteria, including Vibrio harveyi and V. splendidus.
These bacteria are commonly found in marine environments and can infect shrimp through direct contact or contaminated water. They can cause severe illness and mortality in infected shrimp, leading to significant economic losses in shrimp farming industries.
Appropriate management practices, including maintaining good water quality and implementing biosecurity measures, are essential to prevent and control the spread of this disease.

Spread and Transmission of Luminescent Bacterial Disease in Shrimp

Luminescent bacterial disease in shrimp can spread rapidly and cause significant economic losses in aquaculture. The disease can be transmitted directly with infected shrimp, contaminated water, or equipment.
Shrimp farming practices, such as overcrowding and poor water quality, can also increase the risk of disease transmission. To prevent the spread of the disease, it is essential to implement biosecurity measures, maintain good water quality, and promptly isolate and treat infected shrimp.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Luminescent Bacterial Disease in Shrimp?

The disease affects eggs, larvae, post-larvae, juveniles, and adults of shrimps.
Affected shrimp larvae become weak and opaque.
Greenish bioluminescence can be observed in affected shrimp larvae under darkness.
The disease can lead to a complete stock loss in hatcheries if left untreated.
Young juvenile prawns have a high mortality rate (known as “one-month syndrome”).
Moribund hypoxic shrimp arrive at the pond’s top and margins.
Vertical swimming action before acute death.
Luminescent shrimp can be found in ponds.

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Diagnosis of Luminescent Bacterial Disease in Shrimp

Luminescent Bacterial Disease in Shrimp can be diagnosed based on gross signs and symptoms.
Infected larval shrimp would show many swarming bacteria in the hemocoel under microscopic examination.
Common culture media, such as Zobell’s marine agar or nutrient agar supplemented with glycerol, could isolate the bacteria.
The presence of luminescence in the bacteria can also aid in diagnosis.
Early disease detection is important for effective treatment and prevention of spread.

Treatment of Luminescent Bacterial Disease in Shrimp

Luminescent Bacterial Disease in Shrimp can be treated by disinfecting intake water with formalin at 100-200 ppm concentrations.
Administration of antibiotics such as Oxolinic acid at a concentration of 0.6 ppm and Sarafloxacin at a dosage of 5mg/kg through the feed for five days can also be effective.
The use of probiotics such as Bacillus sp. and lactic acid bacteria can help to restore the microbial balance in the shrimp gut and improve immune response.
Immune-boosting agents such as beta-glucans, chitosan, and plant extracts can also enhance the shrimp’s immune system and resistance to disease.
Proper nutrition and management practices, including maintaining optimal water quality and avoiding overfeeding, can also help to prevent and control the disease.
Regular monitoring and early detection of the disease are essential for effective treatment and prevention of spread.

Prevention and Control of Luminescent Bacterial Disease in Shrimp

Prevention and control of Luminescent Bacterial Disease in Shrimp involves proper pond and water management, including utilizing reservoirs to intake water.
The daily exchange of 80-90% water in the hatchery and maintenance of good water quality through physical or chemical methods can reduce bacterial counts and the incidence of bacterial infection.
Hatchery facilities must be disinfected, and infected stock should be disinfected before disposal.
Using probiotics and immune-boosting agents can improve shrimp health and reduce disease risk.
Avoiding overfeeding and maintaining proper nutrition can also help prevent disease outbreaks.
Regular monitoring of water quality and shrimp health is important for early detection and prompt response to disease outbreaks.
Quarantine procedures should be implemented for new stocks introduced into the facility, and biosecurity measures should be in place to prevent the introduction of pathogens.
Education and training for staff and workers on disease prevention and control measures are important for successfully implementing disease management strategies.

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Conclusion

Luminescent Bacterial Disease is a significant threat to the shrimp/prawn farming industry due to its potential to cause high mortality rates. Vibrio harveyi bacteria cause the disease. It can be diagnosed based on gross signs, microscopic examination, and bacterial culture. Treatment involves the disinfection of water and administering antibiotics, probiotics, and immune-boosting agents.

Prevention and control strategies include proper pond and water management, disinfection of facilities, regular monitoring, and implementation of biosecurity measures. Early detection and prompt response to disease outbreaks are crucial for effective management. Proper education and training of staff and workers are also essential for successfully implementing disease prevention and control measures.

Luminescent Bacterial Management in Shrimp (Prawn): Disease Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, Control, and Prevention

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