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• Editor in Chief: Dr. Farshad Shishehchian
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Weare delighted to welcome you to Issue 1, Volume 10 of Aqua Practical magazine, where we delve into the latest advancements and critical issues in shrimp farming.
In this edition, we introduce Blue Aqua Farmers Center which is the new hub of one stop service for shrimp farmers located in Bhimavaram. We explore the cutting-edge topic of early detection of pathogens by dPCR, a technology that promises to revolutionize disease management in shrimp ponds. We also tackle the pressing issue of antibiotic overload in shrimp farming, offering insights and solutions to overcome this challenge.
Discover how the right probiotics can boost your shrimp farm's productivity, and learn about the next frontier in shrimp disease management with digital PCR. We'll also uncover the invisible threats: hidden pathogens in shrimp ponds, and provide a comprehensive guide on sample collection for water, soil, and shrimp to ensure effective monitoring and management.
SINGAPORE ADDRESS: 31 Kaki Bukit Rd 3 #06-25 Techlink Singapore 417818 COORDINATION OFFICE: 599/27 Ratchadapisek Road, Jatujak, Bangkok 10900 Thailand Tel: +66 (0) 21921787 to 88 | info@asianaquaculturenetwork.com
Happy reading, and we hope you find this edition informative and inspiring!
Warm regards,
BLUE AQUA FARMERS CENTER
The New Hub of One Stop Service for Indian Shrimp Farmers
Blue Aqua Farmers Center (BAFC) is a newly established center that serves comprehensive diagnostic tests, expert consultation and tailored solutions.
Our goal is helping the Indian shrimp farmer community to have better productivity and successful farming. At Blue Aqua Farmers Center, we are dedicated to being your trusted partner and bringing you success. We understand all challenges from seed selection, pond cleaning and preparation, carrying capacity, water quality management, phytoplankton diversity to microbial community. Therefore, we are committed to delivering accurate, efficient, and innovative support to help you achieve and maintain healthy, productive ponds.
Photo: Water and soil quality testing laboratory in BAFC
Photo: dPCR machine
Photo: Microscopic observation for plankton diversity
Blue Aqua Group CEO & Founder (Dr. Farshad Shishehchain)
Q1.Can you tell us about inspiration of establishing Blue Aqua Farmers Center and what is the vision of BAFC?
Blue Aqua Farmers Center (BAFC) was inspired by the vision of empowering farmers to achieve sustainable and profitable aquaculture. Recognizing the challenges faced by aquaculture practitioners, such as disease outbreaks, inefficient resource management, and a lack of access to precise diagnostic tools and tailored solutions, BAFC was established as a hub for innovation, education, and support. The core inspiration lies in bridging the gap between cutting-edge technology and traditional farming practices, helping farmers make informed decisions and improve their yields responsibly.
The first Blue Aqua Farmers Center was established in 2024 in Bhimavaram, India, a strategic location at the heart of shrimp farming activity. It serves as a model for advancing farmercentric solutions in one of the world’s most dynamic aquaculture regions. By starting in India, BAFC aims to create a significant impact in a country that plays a pivotal role in global aquaculture production.
The center embodies the commitment to fostering a holistic ecosystem where farmers are not only equipped with advanced tools and solutions but are also empowered through knowledge sharing, community engagement, and expert guidance. BAFC aims to contribute to the global aquaculture industry by enabling a sustainable future for farmers, ensuring food security, and promoting responsible aquaculture practices.
The vision of the Blue Aqua Farmers Center is to become a global leader in farmer-centric aquaculture innovation, education, and support. BAFC strives to:
• Provide farmers with access to world-class diagnostic tools, data-driven insights, and innovative solutions.
• Promote sustainable and responsible aquaculture practices that align with environmental and social stewardship.
• Empower farmers through training programs, technical support, and a sense of community.
• Enhance food security and contribute to the global effort of feeding a growing population.
Photo: Highly skilled technician team in BAFC
Photo: India farmers visited BAFC
Photo: Seminar session
Q2.What sets the Blue Aqua Farmers Center apart from other testing labs?
BAFC distinguishes itself through a unique combination of features that go beyond traditional testing labs.
• Farmer-Centric Approach: Unlike conventional labs that focus solely on analysis, BAFC offers end-to-end solutions tailored to farmer's needs. It provides actionable insights and solutions, ensuring practical value for farmers.
• Integrated Ecosystem: BAFC integrates diagnostics, expert consultations, and on-ground support, creating a seamless ecosystem for farmers to address challenges holistically.
• Advanced Diagnostic Technology (dPCR): BAFC employs digital PCR (dPCR) technology, a cutting-edge molecular diagnostic tool that offers unmatched accuracy in detecting pathogens and diseases in aquaculture. dPCR enables precise analysis of soil, water, and animal samples (shrimp and fish), helping farmers identify and mitigate risks across all critical aspects of aquaculture operations.
• Innovation in Diagnostics: Equipped with state-of-theart facilities, BAFC delivers highly accurate and comprehensive testing services, including water quality analysis, disease diagnostics, and feed optimization.
• Education and Training: BAFC provides farmers with hands-on training, workshops, and knowledge-sharing sessions to improve their skills and understanding of sustainable aquaculture practices.
• Sustainability Focus: The center emphasizes ecofriendly and resource-efficient practices, aligning with global sustainability goals and ensuring long-term viability for farmers.
• Proven Expertise: Backed by Blue Aqua’s global reputation in aquaculture and supported by an experienced team of researchers, technicians, and industry professionals, BAFC brings decades of expertise directly to farmers.
By blending cutting-edge technology like dPCR, which allows for the precise analysis of soil, water, and animal health (shrimp and fish), with a deep understanding of farmer ’s challenges, and starting its journey in Bhimavaram, India, BAFC creates a trusted space where farmers feel supported, informed, and equipped to thrive in an increasingly demanding aquaculture landscape.
Q1.Lab Manager (Dr.Ezhilmathi Selvaram)
What specific technologies or methods do you use to diagnose shrimp diseases? Can you elaborate on the benefits of using dPCR over other methods?
One of the key technologies we use is digital PCR (dPCR). It is the latest innovation in molecular analysis and it is more advanced than PCR and RT-PCR methods. What makes dPCR stand out is its ability to provide absolute DNA quantification, giving us highly sensitive and precise pathogen detection, even at extremely low levels. dPCR has several advantages over traditional PCR and RT-PCR. First, it’s highly accurate and consistent, making disease diagnosis more reliable. It works by splitting the DNA sample into thousands of tiny reactions, allowing it to detect even the smallest traces of pathogens with great precision. Second, dPCR can detect and measure multiple pathogens in a single test (multiplexing), which is great for comprehensive disease screening. This helps identify co-infections that might be missed with other methods. Third, its high sensitivity means it can work with very small samples, making it useful for detecting early-stage infections when pathogen levels are low. Finally, dPCR has a faster and simpler process because it doesn’t need a standard curve for quantification. This reduces errors and speeds up diagnosis, helping us take quick action for better disease management.
Q2.Why is PL screening crucial, and how does BAFC ensure accurate and reliable results?
PL screening is crucial because it helps assess the health and quality of shrimp larvae before stocking them in grow-out ponds. Early detection allows for timely interventions, reducing mortality rates and improving the overall productivity and sustainability of shrimp farming. The success of shrimp farming also depends on high-quality PL. Diseasefree and healthy PL can significantly increase the chances of a successful harvest, bringing shrimp farmers halfway to success.
Photo: dPCR testing area for water, soil and animal
Photo: dPCR sample partitioning
At BAFC, we offer a comprehensive PL screening program to ensure quality and detect hidden diseases. Our advanced analysis and validation methods allow us to accurately assess the quality of PL, helping to eliminate doubts about their condition from the hatchery.
Larvae quality is evaluated using standard indicators, including growth rate, size, gut condition, signs of disease, and stress resistance. Molecular methods can also be used to detect viral contamination. Highly sensitive techniques like digital PCR (dPCR) enable early diagnosis and improve the accuracy of viral infection detection.
1. Visual inspection: Observing overall swimming activity, body shape, uniformity, transparency of PL bodies, and feed responsiveness.
2. Microscopic examination: Examining gill development, body length, gut length ratio, muscle to gut ratio, gut fullness, structural deformities, hepatopancreas, necrosis, rostrum spine, and parasite infection.
3. Stress tests: Assessing health status and resilience by applying salinity, formalin, and temperature tests.
4. Disease assessment: Screening for pathogens and qualifying genetic markers using advanced quantitative molecular methods, such as dPCR.
Q1.
India General Manager (Dr.Anand Periyakaruppan)
Apart from diagnostic services, what BAFC offers to shrimp farmers that is beneficial to them to have a successful farming?
At BAFC, we offer a wide range of diagnostic services to address both common farmer concerns and issues they may not have considered, such as water quality, soil profiling, pond cleaning and preparation effectiveness, carrying capacity optimization, PL screening, and disease detection. Beyond diagnostics, we provide expert consultancy and solutions for shrimp farmers. We believe that accurate diagnostics are just the first step while understanding and acting on the results is just as important. That’s why we take the time to explain findings in detail, helping farmers understand their shrimp’s health and farming conditions. Our team of experts develops and optimizes health management plans, biosecurity measures, and treatment protocols tailored to each farmer’s needs. We also focus on educating farmers, ensuring they have the knowledge and tools to manage challenges effectively. As a result, BAFC serves as a one-stop service hub for shrimp farmers.
Dr. Anand PR was giving speech on BAFC opening day
Characteristic of healthy shrimp PL antennal scales of head portion are closed together whereas the tail fan is widely opened, brownish HP, full gut, finger-like shape, rust-like brown/gray/dark gray pigmentation, muscle to gut ratio is 1:4 Photo: by Dr. Wiphada Mitbumrung
"We are committed to supporting the Indian shrimp farming community, helping them achieve sustainable and productive farming. This dedication makes us a trusted partner in their journey to success."
Q2.
How can shrimp farmers get in touch with the Blue Aqua Farmers Center for more information or to schedule services?
Blue Aqua Farmers Center (BAFC) is located at Door No. 5, Kalla Mandal, M.P Street, Vishnu Priya Plaza, 121/3, Peda Amiram, Bhimavaram, Andhra Pradesh 534204. We are close to the Ratan Naval Tata Statue. Farmers can directly come to our center from Monday to Saturday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. For more information and to schedule services, please call 9891737773.
Antibiotic Overload in Shrimp Farming
Shrimp aquaculture is a major industry globally, contributing significantly to the economy of many countries and positioning them as leading exporters of shrimp. However, intensive shrimp farming systems face challenges with disease outbreaks such as white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) and acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) leading to the practice of extensive shrimp farming systems. The use of antibiotics in shrimp farming primarily aims to prevent and treat bacterial infections and improve survival rates. With disease posing a significant challenge to shrimp growth and intense competition in the market, farmers have resorted to antibiotics as a quick solution to treat infected shrimp. However, the overuse and misuse of these drugs have become prevalent. This practice has raised red flags among public health experts, environmentalists, and international trade regulators due to its far-reaching implications.
Public Health and Environmental Concerns
The excessive use of antibiotics in shrimp farming contributes to the growing global crisis of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) affecting both human health and environment. AMR occurs when bacteria evolve to resist the effects of antibiotics, rendering treatments ineffective. AMR is a natural process that happens over time through genetic changes in pathogens. Its emergence and spread is accelerated by human activity, mainly the misuse and overuse of antimicrobials to treat, prevent or control infections in humans, animals and plants. Antimicrobials – including antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitics – are medicines used to prevent and treat
infectious diseases in humans, animals and plants. AMR is one of the most pressing public health threats of the 21st century because it has implications for human and animal health. In aquaculture sector, it is thought to have high antibiotic use and have particular concern interms of propensity for emergence, persistence and transmission within the aqueous environment. The unregulated release of antibiotic-filled water from shrimp farms into the environment not only affects aquatic ecosystems but also facilitates the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria to other species and eventually to humans.
Impact on International Trade
Many countries regulate antibiotic use in aquaculture, with strict guidelines on withdrawal periods to ensure shrimp are safe for consumption. Shrimp exports have been rejected by major markets like the US, EU, and Japan due to the detection of antibiotic residues. In 2023, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published detailed data regarding 41 seafood entry line refusals through at least the first two weeks of January, of which nine (22.0%) were of shrimp for reasons related to banned antibiotics (Nitrofurans). These nine entry line refusals originated from two shrimp exporters. These substances are prohibited in food production due to their potential health risks, including allergic reactions and links to cancer in humans. These rejections harm the reputation of shrimp-exporting nations and cause major economic losses. Stricter regulations in importing countries mean producers must follow international standards. If not, trade restrictions and loss of market share could devastate the aquaculture industry and harm millions of farmers' livelihoods.
Nitrofuran is a synthetic antibiotic widely used to treat intestinal infections in cattle, poultry, and shrimp. However, this group of antibiotics has been linked to cancer and mutations in animals, posing significant health risks. Consequently, nitrofuran is recognized as a chemical food hazard. It is prohibited for use in animals raised for food in many countries due to its potential harmful effects.
The Way Forward
To achieve antibiotic-free shrimp culture, prioritizing disease prevention over treatment is vital. By adopting a holistic approach to farm management and implementing best practices, farmers can create a healthy environment that minimizes the risk of disease outbreaks and eliminates the need for antibiotics.
Pond Preparation and Disinfection:
Use appropriate disinfectants to sanitize the pond bottom and walls. Clean and disinfect ponds thoroughly before stocking to remove organic debris, harmful pathogens, and parasites. Regularly treat incoming water to ensure it's free
from contaminants and disease-causing organisms. Implement water treatments, such as biofilters, UV sterilizers, or chemical treatments, to address specific water quality issues and prevent the introduction of disease-causing organisms.
Water Quality Management:
Promptly remove uneaten feed and waste to prevent the accumulation of organic matter, which can lead to poor water quality and pathogen proliferation. Maintain an optimal environment by keeping ORP, pH, and oxygen levels stable to reduce shrimp stress and promote growth.
Seed Quality:
Source high-quality shrimp seeds from reputable hatcheries that use specific pathogen-free (SPF) broodstock. SPF broodstock are bred to be free of specific pathogens, reducing the risk of disease transmission. Quarantine new seed batches for a period before stocking them in the main ponds. Acclimate the seeds to the pond environment gradually to minimize stresses and increase survival rates.
Probiotics and Natural Supplements:
Encourage farmers to adopt sustainable and eco-friendly practices like probiotics, biosecurity measures, and diseaseresistant shrimp breeds to reduce dependency on antibiotics.
Biosecurity and Health Monitoring:
Implement strict biosecurity protocols, such as limiting access to farms, disinfecting equipment, and using foot baths at entry points to prevent the introduction and spread of pathogens. Conduct routine health checks to detect early signs of disease and take preventive action before outbreaks occur.
Healthy L. vannamei PL from specific pathogen free broodstock Photo: by Pipitpan Lerdpipitpon
Boosting Shrimp Farm Productivity with the Right Probiotics
Asthe global population continues to grow, the demand for seafood is rising rapidly, driven by its status as a high-quality and nutritious protein source. Among various types of seafood, shrimp stands out due to its versatility, taste, and nutritional benefits. Consequently, shrimp farming has become increasingly important in meeting the protein needs of the global population. This industry has experienced significant growth, particularly because it allows for intensification with relatively low environmental impact. Intensification farming in shrimp aquaculture refers to practices aimed at increasing production per unit area, which involves higher stocking densities and optimized feeding strategies. This approach enables farmers to maximize yields and meet the rising demand for shrimp in competitive markets. However, intensification brings its own set of challenges, such as high biomass and increased organic load in shrimp farms. Maintaining productivity and health in shrimp farms is often challenging due to disease outbreaks, poor water quality, and stress factors, which can significantly impact shrimp health and productivity.
To manage the high organic load and maintain water quality, farmers need to adopt sustainable practices. One effective solution is the use of probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that help manage organic matter, improve water quality, and enhance the overall health of shrimp. By breaking down organic waste and outcompeting harmful pathogens, probiotics create a healthier pond environment, reducing the risk of disease and stress on shrimp.
Photo: Foam caused by probiotics activities
The Role of Probiotics in Shrimp Farming
1. Improve Water Quality:
Probiotics help maintain water quality by breaking down organic matter, reducing harmful ammonia and nitrate levels, and preventing the buildup of toxic compounds in the pond environment.
2. Disease Prevention:
Certain probiotic strains inhibit the growth of harmful pathogens by competing for nutrients and attachment sites, producing antimicrobial compounds, and enhancing the shrimp’s immune response.
3. Enhance Digestive Health:
Probiotics improve gut flora balance in shrimp, facilitating better digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall growth rates.
4. Stress Reduction:
By stabilizing environmental conditions and improving shrimp health, probiotics help reduce stress caused by overcrowding, temperature fluctuations, or handling.
Matching the Right Strain to the Right Purpose
Bacillus species play a vital role in shrimp aquaculture by enhancing growth, improving water quality, boosting immunity, and preventing disease outbreaks. These beneficial bacteria are widely used as probiotics in shrimp farming due to their ability to promote a healthier gut microbiome, reduce pathogenic bacteria, and support a more stable aquatic environment.
One of the primary benefits of Bacillus is its contribution to digestion and nutrient absorption. Species such as Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus licheniformis, and Bacillus coagulans produce digestive enzymes like proteases, amylases, and lipases, which help break down proteins, carbohydrates, and fats in shrimp feed. This enhances feed conversion efficiency, leading to improved growth and survival rates. Additionally, Bacillus bacteria outcompete harmful pathogens like Vibrio species by producing antimicrobial compounds, organic acids, and competitive exclusion mechanisms. Certain Bacillus strains degrade organic matter, breaking down excess feed and shrimp waste, which helps in reducing harmful ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate levels. This bioremediation process creates a healthier environment, minimizing stress and mortality among shrimp.
Lactobacillus species are widely used as probiotics to promote gut health in shrimp. The key benefits of Lactobacillus is its ability to improve digestion and nutrient absorption. Species such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus plantarum, and Lactobacillus casei produce enzymes that help break down proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids into simpler forms, making them easier for shrimp to digest. This leads to better feed utilization and improving shrimp growth. Additionally, Lactobacillus produces lactic acid, which lowers gut pH, creating an unfavorable environment for pathogenic bacteria like Vibrio species, thereby reducing the risk of diseases.
To get the most out of probiotics, it’s important to follow regular applications by consistently applying them as instructed by the manufacturer to maintain their benefits. Additionally, regularly testing water parameters helps to assess the impact of probiotics and make necessary adjustments. Combining probiotics with good farm management practices, such as proper biosecurity, waste management, and disease prevention, ensures their effectiveness and helps maintain a healthy and productive shrimp farming environment.
The Next Frontier in Shrimp Disease Management by Digital PCR
Asone of the fastest-growing sectors in global food production, shrimp aquaculture is frequently hindered by disease outbreaks. These outbreaks can devastate entire batches of shrimp, spread to other ponds within the farm, and even carry over to the next farming cycle, causing significant economic losses and threatening the sustainability of the industry. Traditional diagnostic methods often fall short in detecting pathogens early and accurately, leading to delayed responses and widespread infections. This is where digital PCR (dPCR) comes into play. dPCR is a revolutionary technology poised to transform shrimp disease management by offering high precision and sensitivity. By detecting pathogens at the earliest stages, dPCR enables timely interventions, reduces the spread of diseases, and minimizes economic losses.
What is Digital PCR?
Digital PCR (dPCR) is an advanced and innovative molecular technique used to quantify nucleic acids, such as DNA or RNA, with a high degree of precision and accuracy. Unlike traditional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) or real-time PCR (qPCR), which provide relative quantification, dPCR offers absolute quantification of target nucleic acids. The key feature of dPCR is its ability to partition a sample into thousands, or even millions, of individual reactions. This is typically achieved using microfluidic technology or emulsification to create droplets. Each partition is then analyzed separately to determine the presence or absence of the target pathogen’s genetic material. By counting the number of positive partitions (those containing the target nucleic acid) and applying statistical analysis, dPCR provides an exact count of the target
molecules in the original sample. The benefit of partitioning allows for absolute quantification of pathogens, making dPCR highly accurate and reliable even when pathogen levels are extremely low.
Partitioning into during amplification thousands of reactions
Sensitivity Moderate High Extremely high
Quantification Relative Quantitative but relative Absolute
Standard Curves Yes Yes No Required
Inhibitor Resistance Moderate Moderate High
Cost Lower Moderate Higher
Use Cases Basic DNA Gene expression, Rare mutation detection, amplification viral load pathogen detection
Advantages Cost-effective, Quantitative, real-time High precision, quantification widely available monitoring of rare targets
Limitations Not quantitative Requires standard Higher cost, more curve complex setup
Advantages of Digital PCR in Shrimp Disease Management
1. Early Detection: dPCR’s high sensitivity allows for the detection of pathogens at very low concentrations, enabling it to identify potential outbreaks before they spread.
2. Quantitative Analysis: dPCR provides precise quantification (copies/μl) of pathogen load, offering valuable insights into disease progression and helping to make informed decisions.
3. High Specificity: dPCR can differentiate between closely related pathogens or genetic variants, ensuring accurate diagnostics and targeted interventions.
4. Robust Performance: dPCR is less affected by inhibitors often present in environmental samples like pond water or shrimp tissue, making it a reliable tool in diverse farming conditions.
Exploring Invisible Threats Hidden Pathogens in Shrimp Ponds
Shrimp populations are constantly under threat from unseen microbial and viral pathogens that live in pond sediments and water. These hidden threats include viruses like white spot syndrome virus (WSSV), bacteria such as Vibrio species, and infectious myonecrosis virus (IMNV). Additionally, other pathogens such as Taura syndrome virus (TSV) and Enterocytozoon hepatopenaei (EHP) also pose significant risks. These pathogens can quietly persist in the pond environment, waiting for favorable conditions to trigger disease outbreaks. When these conditions arise, the pathogens can spread rapidly, causing widespread infections that lead to significant shrimp losses.
Shrimp diseases can be complicated because they don't always come from just one source. Sometimes, shrimp can get co-infections from multiple pathogens at the same time, which makes the disease worse. Other times, environmental factors like poor water quality or high stocking density can stress the shrimp and weaken their immune systems, making them more vulnerable to opportunistic pathogens that wouldn't normally cause problems. This mix of different pathogens and environmental stressors is what makes managing shrimp diseases so challenging. White feces syndrome is a good example of this complexity. When shrimp have this syndrome, they often stop eating due to an imbalance in their gut microbiota. This imbalance can be caused by a high load of pathogens like EHP and Vibrio
bacteria. Additionally, poor feed quality can contribute to the problem by not providing the necessary nutrients to maintain a healthy gut. These factors combined can lead to weakened shrimp, making them more susceptible to further infections and health issues. Addressing both the microbial balance and feed quality is crucial for preventing and managing white feces syndrome.
Understanding the life cycles and behaviors of pathogens in shrimp ponds is crucial. Some pathogens can stay dormant in pond sediments, waiting for the right conditions to become active. Pond sediments are critical reservoirs for harmful pathogens because organic matter like uneaten feed, shrimp waste, and decaying organisms accumulate at the bottom, creating an ideal environment for microbial growth. Harmful bacteria like Vibrio can grow rapidly in these nutrient-rich sediments, and dormant viral particles can stay viable for long periods. EHP, a microsporidian parasite, is especially dangerous. EHP spores are very resilient and can persist in pond soil and water for extended periods, surviving even in unfavorable conditions. After culturing the same pond that has been infected with EHP, the spores can enter the shrimp gut and spread again, creating a cycle of infection that is challenging to break. This repeated cycle of disease can significantly impact shrimp growth and productivity, making it difficult to treat and eradicate.
Photo: Shrimp mortality of unknown cause
Poor Water Quality
Pathogens thrive in poor water quality because it often means higher levels of organic matter and waste, which provide nutrients for bacterial growth. Low oxygen levels can stress shrimp, making them more susceptible to infections.
High Stocking Density
High stocking density leads to increased stress and competition among shrimp, weakening their immune systems and making it easier for pathogens to spread quickly through the population.
Excess Organic Matter
Accumulation of uneaten feed, shrimp waste, and decaying organisms at the pond bottom creates a nutrient-rich environment that supports the growth of harmful bacteria and other pathogens.
Inadequate Biosecurity
Lack of proper biosecurity measures allows pathogens to enter the farm through contaminated equipment, water, or feed, leading to the introduction and rapid spread of diseases.
Temperature Fluctuations
Fluctuations in water temperature can stress shrimp, making them more vulnerable to infections. Certain pathogens may become more active and virulent at specific temperature ranges.
Poor Nutrition
Inadequate or unbalanced nutrition can weaken shrimp's immune systems, making them more prone to infections. Pathogens can exploit the weakened state of shrimp to establish infections.
Stress Factors
Stress from handling, environmental changes, or overcrowding can suppress the immune system of shrimp, making them more susceptible to infections. Stressful conditions can also trigger dormant pathogens to become active.
Overfeeding causes poor water quality
Photo: by Dr. Wiphada Mitbumrung
The simplest way to keep a pond healthy and free from pathogens is to reduce the accumulation of organic matter both in the water and at the pond bottom. This can be achieved in two ways: managing the input and ensuring proper output. Firstly, effective feed management by avoiding overfeeding the shrimp and providing just enough feed to ensure they are well-nourished without leaving excess food that can sink to the bottom and decompose. Use high-quality feed to improve digestion and reduce waste. Secondly, regular cleaning of sludge and removing waste from the pond bottom helps to prevent the build-up of organic matter. Introducing probiotics into the pond environment is particularly important. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that help break down organic matter and maintain a healthy microbial balance. They can outcompete harmful bacteria and support the overall health of the shrimp by enhancing digestion and nutrient absorption. Additionally, increase oxygen levels and promote water circulation. Higher oxygen levels support the growth of beneficial bacteria and are crucial for the oxidation process. This holistic approach ensures a cleaner, healthier pond environment, reducing the risk of pathogens and promoting the well-being of shrimp populations.
Tips: Probiotic Activation Guide
1. Prepare clean bucket
2. Fill bucket with clean pond water
3. Add probiotic, recommended at 250g/ac
4. Aerate for 2 - 3 hours under shaded area
5. Evenly spread probiotic solution to the pond
6. Dissolve sugar in another bucket, recommended at 2kg/ac
7. Apply sugar solution to the pond
*Ensure ponds have enough oxygen supply and aeration.
*Probiotic application should be done in the morning.
Photo: Activation of probiotic powder by hydration with clean pond water
Photo: Use check tray to observe eating behavior of shrimp and accurate estimation of feeding rate
Photo: High quality feed from marine based ingredients and proper feed size increase feed utilization
SAMPLE COLLECTION for Water, Soil and Shrimp
Before collecting shrimp samples, note gross changes such as abnormal behavior, size variation, stunted growth, white faecal threads in the pond, changes in appearance or colour and lesions.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Water sample
• Clean bottle 500 ml - 1 L
• Marker
Soil sample
• Zipper bag or closed container
• Marker
Shrimp sample (PL/grow out) - live
• Double polypack
• Oxygen
• Ice or gel pack
• Styrofoam box or cooler box or thermal bag
• Marker
Shrimp sample (PL) - preserved
• 95% ethanol
• Leak proof container
• Parafilm
• Zipper bag
• Marker
Water sampling Soil sampling Shrimp samplelive Shrimp samplepreserved
1. Submerge bottle in water.
2. Collect water at 1 ft below water surface around 500 ml - 1 L
3. Tightly close lid, label information of pond, location and collection date and time.
4. Send sample to the lab at ambient temperature.
1. At each selected point, take soil about 500 g at the depth of 10 - 15 cm
2. Put soil sample in zipper bag.
3. Seal the bag and label information of pond, location and collection date and time.
4. Send sample to the lab at ambient temperature.
1. Select suspected shrimp and place them in a double polypack. For PL shrimp, collect minimum 200 PLs depending on their size. For grow out, collect 5 - 6 shrimp.
2. Fill the bag with pond water and oxygen to keep them alive during the transportation.
3. Seal the bag and label sample.
4. Add ice or gel packs to maintain a cool temperature and send the sample to the lab as soon as possible.
1. Fill the leak proof container with 95% ethanol.
2. Take minimum 200 PLs depending on size and preserve in ethanol.
3. Close the lid and seal the top of the container with parafilm.
4. Place the sample container in a zipper bag.
5. Seal the bag and label sample.
6. Fill the submission form and send sample to the lab.
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"Aqua Practical" brings practical knowledge sharing on technical issues and best practices to its network of members and subscribers. Published quarterly by the Asian Aquaculture Network (AAN).
Asian Aquaculture Network (AAN) was establishes in 2009 as a regional professional network of communication, knowledge and sharing practical technical information about aquaculture. The primary focus is on promoting sustainable development and profitable practices of aquaculture around the world.
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