Shrimp Biosecurity and Welfare: Disease Prevention

Disease outbreaks in shrimp farms cause massive mortality and welfare harm. Biosecurity measures that prevent disease protect both welfare and economic viability.

Key Facts

White spot syndrome virus has caused over 15 billion dollars in shrimp industry losses
Early mortality syndrome kills shrimp within 35 days of stocking in affected ponds
Disease-stressed shrimp show altered swimming patterns and aggregation at pond edges
Biosecurity measures including SPF broodstock and pond disinfection dramatically reduce disease
Probiotic supplementation can reduce pathogen loads and improve immune function in farmed shrimp

Welfare Considerations

Mass mortality from disease outbreaks represents both an economic catastrophe and a welfare failure. Shrimp experiencing acute bacterial or viral disease show behavioral and physiological stress responses before death. The precautionary welfare approach supports investment in disease prevention: using specific pathogen-free broodstock, rigorous pond preparation, water quality management, and monitoring for early disease signs. Prevention-focused biosecurity simultaneously protects shrimp welfare and farm viability, making it the most cost-effective and welfare-positive approach to shrimp health management.

What You Can Do

Support shrimp certification schemes that include disease management and biosecurity standards
Advocate for investment in SPF broodstock programs in major shrimp producing nations
Follow FAO and NACA guidance on responsible shrimp health management
Reduce shrimp consumption from sources without health certification
Support research into sustainable disease prevention methods for farmed shrimp