Shrimp aquaculture disease outbreaks cause mass mortality events that represent both major economic losses and significant welfare impacts, and biosecurity improvements address both concerns.
The welfare implications of aquaculture disease are often framed purely in economic terms, but the animals experiencing disease also suffer. Shrimp affected by EMS or WSSV show abnormal swimming, reduced feeding, and rapid deterioration. While the sentience of shrimp remains scientifically debated, the precautionary approach suggests that preventing mass disease events is a welfare goal alongside the economic goal. Better biosecurity serves both objectives.