This blog post discusses the issue of Vibriosis in Vannamei shrimp, a bacterial disease that has caused increased mortality in recent years. The post explores the causes, prevention, and treatment of Vibriosis in Vannamei shrimp and provides general tips on shrimp farming and management to reduce the risk of outbreaks.
Vibriosis Management in Vannamei
What Is Vannamei Farming?
Vannamei farming, also known as white shrimp farming, is a popular aquaculture practice for producing high-quality shrimp. Vannamei shrimp is a species native to the eastern Pacific Ocean, from Mexico to Peru, but is now widely farmed in India, Thailand, Ecuador, and Vietnam.
Vannamei farming involves raising shrimp in large ponds or tanks using a combination of natural and artificial feeds. The ponds are often located near the coast, where seawater can be pumped into the ponds. The shrimp are typically stocked as post-larvae and fed a diet of commercial shrimp feed and other protein sources like fish and soybean meal.
What Is Vibriosis?
Vibriosis is caused by two Vibrio bacteria types: Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio vulnificus. Its symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Most people with Vibriosis recover without treatment, but some may develop hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), leading to kidney failure and death.
Vibriosis is caused by eating raw or undercooked shellfish or getting the bacteria on an open wound. The bacteria live in saltwater and brackish water along the coast and are found naturally there. The disease usually lasts between 3 and 5 days and is more common in warmer water. Most infections happen between May and October.
What Causes and Spread of Disease Vibriosis in Vannamei?
Poor water quality, including high or low levels of ammonia, nitrite, and poorly aerated ponds, are significant causes of Vibriosis in vannamei shrimp. Other contributing factors include stress, exposure to contaminated water, and a lack of nutrients in the shrimp’s diet. Poorly managed shrimp farms and improper hygiene practices of farm workers also increase the risk of vibriosis outbreaks.
Contaminated seafood sold at markets and improperly cooked seafood can also cause Vibriosis. Vibrio parahaemolyticus, which is found in warm salt water, causes Vibriosis. It enters the shrimp through the gills and can cause damage. Vibrio bacteria can also enter the body through an open wound, causing skin infections.
In case you missed it: White Gut Disease Management in Shrimp: Symptoms, Causes, Control, Prevention, and Treatment
What are the Signs and Symptoms of Vibriosis in Vannamei?
Vibriosis is a food-borne disease caused by the Vibrio bacteria that results in intestinal symptoms. Symptoms include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, fever, and chills, typically occurring 12 to 72 hours after eating contaminated food. While cases are usually mild, people with weakened immune systems may experience more severe symptoms. When the Vibrio bacteria get into an open wound, they can cause a very painful, red, and swollen skin infection.