Translucent Post Larvae Disease (TPD) has emerged as a significant threat to whiteleg shrimp aquaculture, with initial cases reported in China (2019) and subsequent occurrences in Vietnam (2023), as reported by the Vietnam Fisheries Department after ShrimpVet Laboratory’s research showing presence of novel Vibrio parahaemolyticus strain in shrimp hatchery samples. TPD is characterized by a pale, translucent hepatopancreas in post-larvae stages. Following detection, the disease results in significant mortality rates exceeding 90% within 24-28 hours. Investigations have attributed TPD to a novel Vibrio parahaemolyticus strain, exhibiting heightened virulence and distinct from strains implicated in Acute Hepatopancreatic Necrosis Disease (AHPND). Epidemiological scrutiny of hatchery shrimp samples revealed a TPD prevalence exceeding 50%, underscoring the need for efficacious management strategies.
This study employed histopathological examination and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) diagnostics to elucidate TPD pathology and inform management protocols. The advent of TPD continues to necessitate immediate intervention to avert potential industry-wide repercussions as ShrimpVet’s internal research has also shown TPD can also infect whiteleg shrimp at their grow out stages.
A management protocol encompassing rigorous sanitation, probiotic deployment, and continuous pathogen surveillance has demonstrated efficacy in mitigating TPD dissemination at ShrimpVet. This protocol can help reduce cases of TPD outbreaks and significantly protecting farmers from unforeseeable huge financial losses. The ShrimpVet-devised management framework constitutes a pivotal step towards TPD prophylaxis, thereby bolstering industry fortitude and contributing to global food security. Future research is focusing on genetic analysis to understand TPD’s mechanisms and develop targeted treatments. ShrimpVet is continuously investigating potential preventative measures against TPD through in-vitro and in-vivo trials.